Planning Statement in Support of a Planning Application for an Eastern Extension and to Consolidate Existing Permissions, with a Revised Restoration Scheme

Shire Oak Quarry, Chester Road, Walsall

Report Reference: CE-SO-1107-RP01 - FINAL

Produced by Crestwood Environmental Ltd.

Crestwood Report Reference: CE-SO-1107-RP01 - FINAL:

Version & Date Written / Updated by: Checked & Authorised by: Status Produced

Adam Collinge (Principal Landscape FINAL Dec-16 Karl Jones (Director) Architect)

This report has been prepared in good faith, with all reasonable skill, care and diligence, based on information provided or known available at the time of its preparation and within the scope of work agreement with the client.

We disclaim any responsibility to the client and others in respect of any matters outside the scope of the above.

The report is provided for the sole use of the named client and is confidential to them and their professional advisors. No responsibility is accepted to others.

Crestwood Environmental Ltd. 1-2 Nightingale Place Pendeford Business Park Wobaston Road Pendeford West Midlands WV9 5HF

Tel: 01902 229 563

Email: [email protected] Web: www.crestwoodenvironmental.co.uk Planning Application for an Eastern Extension at Shire Oak Quarry Planning Statement

CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 6 1.1 PREFACE ...... 6 1.2 THE APPLICANT ...... 6 1.3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 6 1.4 THE ENVIRONMENT AGENCY AND PERMITTING ...... 9 1.5 DEFINITIONS ...... 9 1.6 SUMMARY OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ...... 10 2 THE APPLICATION SITE ...... 11 2.1 LOCATION ...... 11 2.2 THE SITE, SURROUNDING ENVIRONS AND CONSTRAINTS ...... 11 2.3 PLANNING HISTORY, OBLIGATIONS AND CONSTRAINTS ...... 12 2.4 SHIRE OAK QUARRY – CURRENT SITUATION ...... 13 2.5 THE EASTERN EXTENSION AREA – CURRENT SITUATION ...... 14 3 DEVELOPMENT DETAILS ...... 15 3.1 EXISTING PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT ...... 15 3.2 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ...... 16 3.3 RESTORATION ...... 19 3.4 HOURS OF OPERATION ...... 20 3.5 LIFE OF OPERATIONS ...... 20 3.6 VEHICLE MOVEMENTS AND ACCESS...... 21 3.7 INFRASTRUCTURE AND MINERAL PROCESSING PLANT ...... 22 3.8 SITE SECURITY ...... 23 3.9 STAFFING ...... 23 3.10 PROPOSED PLANNING CONDITIONS ...... 23 3.11 GEOLOGY ...... 23 4 NEED ...... 28 4.1 GENERAL ...... 28 4.2 SECURING MINERAL SUPPLY ...... 28 4.3 INERT WASTE INFILL ...... 34 4.4 RESTORATION ENHANCMENTS AND BENEFITS ...... 34 4.5 SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS ...... 35 5 POLICY ...... 42 5.1 GENERAL ...... 42 5.2 NATIONAL POLICY ...... 42 5.3 STAFFORDSHIRE AND STOKE-ON-TRENT MINERALS LOCAL PLAN 1994-2006 ...... 48 5.4 STAFFORDSHIRE AND STOKE-ON-TRENT JOINT WASTE LOCAL PLAN 2010-2026 ...... 52 5.5 THE NEW MINERALS LOCAL PLAN FOR STAFFORDSHIRE (2015-2030) ...... 54 5.6 THE LICHFIELD DISTRICT LOCAL PLAN STRATEGY 2008 - 2029 ...... 58 5.7 STONNALL NEIGHBOUHOOD PLAN 2014 – 2029...... 59 5.8 BLACK COUNTRY CORE STRATEGY AND WALSALL PLANNING POLICY ...... 60 5.9 OVERALL COMMENTARY ...... 61 6 ENVIRONMENTAL AND OTHER CONSIDERATIONS...... 62 6.1 NOISE ...... 62 6.2 AIR QUALITY (ODOUR & DUST) ...... 62

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6.3 ECOLOGY AND BIODIVERSITY ...... 63 6.4 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ...... 64 6.5 HIGHWAYS / TRANSPORT ...... 64 6.6 AGRICULTURE AND SOILS ...... 65 6.7 TREES ...... 65 6.8 LAND CONTAMINATION AND GROUND CONDITIONS ...... 66 6.9 WATER ENVIRONMENT ...... 67 6.10 CULTURAL HERITAGE AND ARCHAEOLOGY ...... 69 6.11 GROUND AND STRUCTURal STABILITY ...... 69 6.12 UTILITIES ...... 70 6.13 LIGHTING ...... 70 6.14 GENERAL AMENITY & OTHER ISSUES ...... 70 6.15 CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 71 6.16 HEALTH AND SAFETY ...... 71 6.17 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS ...... 71 7 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ...... 72 7.1 PLANNING AND THE NEW MINERALS LOCAL PLAN FOR STAFFORDSHIRE ...... 72 7.2 PUBLIC CONSULTATION ...... 75

LIST OF APPENDICES:

Appendix A Planning Checklist

Appendix B Planning Forms and Certificates

Appendix C Planning Drawings:

 Figure 1 - Site Location Plan

 Figure 2 - Main Quarry Permission Plan

 Figure 3 - Dry Recycling Permission Plan

 Figure 4 - Eastern Extension Planning Application Boundary Plan

 Figure 5 - Consolidated Planning Boundary Plan (inc. land under the control of the Applicant)

 Figure 6 - Existing Site Plan

 Figure 7 - Environmental Setting Plan

 Figure 8 - Progressive Working – Stage 1

 Figure 9 - Progressive Working – Stage 2

 Figure 10 - Progressive Working – Stage 3

 Figure 11 - Revised Restoration Masterplan

 Figure 12 – Site Cross-sections

 Figure 13 – Progressive Working – Stage 2 (Showing Wider Context)

 Figure 14 – Revised Restoration Masterplan (Showing Wider Context)

Appendix D Site Photos

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Appendix E Tree Survey

Appendix F Historical and archaeological appraisal

Appendix G Transport Statement

Appendix H Analysis of Planning Conditions

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f EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Shire Oak Quarry is situated in the eastern quadrant of the existing cross roads between the A461 (Lichfield Rd.) and the A452 (Chester Rd.). The Site is accessed direct from the Chester Road, the A452. The existing Planning Permission Boundary (ref: L.13.13.809MW), allowing for mineral extraction and landfill operations, covers a total area of c. 31.64ha.

JPE Holding Ltd (the ‘Applicant’) is applying for full planning permission to provide for an eastern extension to the Shire Oak Quarry to cover the two fields and land immediately adjacent to the existing quarry. ‘The Proposed Development’ comprises the following key aspects:

 The consolidation of the existing Quarry and Recycling Permissions in to a single overall planning permission covering the entire application site, with revised proposals.

 A predominantly eastern and southeastern extension to existing mineral extraction operations, where additional extraction operations would cover 4.67ha of land (excluding existing operational working), releasing over 1.6 million tonnes of saleable primary sand and gravel aggregates.

 Continuation of recycling operations, as consented, during the operational time periods to facilitate aggregate processing and restoration material provision.

 Ongoing infilling operations to achieve restoration levels. A revised lower level restoration landform is proposed, such that the total level of infill to achieve the revised restoration for the proposed extended quarry site is roughly equivalent to the current infill requirements to achieve the approved restoration for the existing quarry complex.

 Accounting for the mineral extension area, extend the overall life of operations to achieve restoration by up to 5 years from 31 December 2023 (under the Quarry Permission) to 31 December 2028.

The additional planning application area totals c. 8.1ha, of which c. 4.1ha will be subject to mineral extraction operations (i.e. around 50% of the adjacent land to the east).

Planning permission is being sought to prevent mineral sterilisation east of Shire Oak Quarry and provide for continuing mineral demand and local supply, noting existing mineral resources are likely to be exhausted ahead of schedule. An enhanced revised restoration scheme is proposed that provides for a mixed use agricultural, nature conservation and woodland afteruse, with allowance for permissive access.

The proposals intend to make full use of the existing Site infrastructure, access and processing operations to facilitate extraction and subsequent restoration at the earliest opportunity. The baseline environmental and planning controls are generally considered fit for purpose and will be extended to cover the additional Proposed Eastern Extension area.

The proposals have been subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment process and various supporting studies, with the application supported by an Environmental Statement. The Proposed Development is unlikely to result in the creation of any significant environmental impacts including noise, air, dust, litter, traffic ecology, landscape and soils impacts. Furthermore, operations of will be subject to stringent regulation by the Environment Agency by means of an Environmental Permit.

The proposals have been assessed against the relevant development plan policies and national planning policy, which the Proposed Development is considered to accord with.

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Overall, the Proposed Development will bring about a number of material planning benefits that should be supported under national and local policy. In respect of the proposals, there should be a presumption in favour sustainable development. This Planning Statement sets out the planning justification for the proposals.

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f 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 PREFACE

1.1.1 This Planning Statement is part of a suite of documents that accompany and support a planning application for a proposed extension to site operations at Shire Oak Quarry, Chester Road, Walsall including:

 Planning Application Supporting Statement;

 Environmental Statement (Volumes 1 to 3);

 Plans and Drawings;

 Planning Application Forms and Certificates; and

 Various Appendices relating to specialist topics submitted in support of the application

1.1.2 Crestwood Environmental Ltd. (‘CEL’), an environmental and planning consultancy with extensive experience in the minerals and waste management sectors, have been appointed to act as Agent on behalf of the Applicant and has prepared this Supporting Statement.

1.2 THE APPLICANT

1.2.1 The Applicant, JPE (Holdings) Ltd. is one of the Midlands’ leading suppliers of aggregates, sand and soils to the construction industry. They supply from their own strategically located local sources that ensures the highest levels of product quality. With an in-house fleet of vehicles they also offer a full muck-shift service for both one off and large volume jobs that includes disposal, recovery and a back to back service with deliveries of sand, aggregate or soil.

1.2.2 The Applicant is committed to helping improve the sustainability of construction projects, and operate the latest recovery plant to return recovered, fully washed sand and stone from waste arisings to the construction market.

1.2.3 The Applicant has steadily developed its business, supplying aggregates, groundworks and site clearance over a period of more than 20 years. The company has been involved in many of the leading projects in the Midlands area, including the Black Country Route, Trent Valley Four Tracking Project (TV4), the M6 Toll Road and the M6 hard shoulder strengthening.

1.2.4 By providing the highest levels of service and a commitment to supporting sustainability in the construction industry, the Applicant has gained a reputation for being leaders in delivering earth and aggregate solutions.

1.2.5 The Applicant has successfully operated Shire Oak Quarry for around 5 years, boosting productivity, delivering recycling operations and progressing restoration. The Applicant has successfully taken the Site out of a semi-dormant state to allow continuation of consented operations.

1.3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

1.3.1 The Proposed Development is supported by a voluntary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as reported in the accompanying Environmental Statement (ES).

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1.3.2 It is considered that the proposals would fall under Schedule 2 of the EIA Regulations under:

 Category 2 (a) ‘Quarries, open cast mining and peat extraction’, where the corresponding applicable thresholds (in PPG) state are for “all development except the construction of buildings or other ancillary development where the new floorspace does not exceed 1000 square metres” and “Clay, sand and gravel workings, quarries covering more than 15 hectares or involve the extraction of more than 30,000 tonnes of mineral per year”.

 Category 11b ‘Other Projects – Installations for the disposal of waste’, where the corresponding applicable thresholds (in PPG) are “(i) The disposal is by incineration; or (ii) the area of the development exceeds 0.5 hectare; or (iii) the installation is to be sited within 100 metres of any controlled waters” and “Installations (including landfill sites) for the deposit, recovery and/or disposal of household, industrial and/or commercial wastes where new capacity is created to hold more than 50,000 tonnes per year, or to hold waste on a site of 10 hectares or more”.

1.3.3 On 9th January 2015, a formal Screening and Scoping Request (under the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011 (as amended), was submitted to Staffordshire County Council in respect of the woodland area north of fishpond cottage, with the original intention that areas east of Shire Oak Quarry (outside the existing planning permission boundary) be pursued as allocations under the new Minerals Local Plan and subject to separate planning applications. The proposals were screened as being EIA development and a formal Scoping Opinion from SCC was received on 1st April 2015 (ref: SCO.68/809MW) confirming the scope and content of any planning application.

1.3.4 On balance, the Proposed Development is a larger scale than previously Screened and is likely to be considered EIA development. In conjunction with further consultations, the previous Scoping information has been used as a basis to inform the EIA process and the content of this ES for the composite Proposed Development.

1.3.5 Planning Practice Guidance states that:

“There is no statutory provision as to the form of an Environmental Statement. However, it must contain the information specified in Part II of Schedule 4, and such of the relevant information in Part I of the Schedule 4 as is reasonably required to assess the effects of the project and which the applicant can reasonably be required to compile. It may consist of one or more documents, but it must constitute a “single and accessible compilation of the relevant environmental information and the summary in non-technical language” (Berkeley v SSETR [2000] 3 All ER 897, 908)

1.3.6 Whilst every Environmental Statement should provide a full factual description of the development, the emphasis of Schedule 4 is on the “main” or “significant” environmental effects to which a development is likely to give rise. “The Environmental Statement should be proportionate and not be any longer than is necessary to assess properly those effects. Where, for example, only one environmental factor is likely to be significantly affected, the assessment should focus on that issue only. Impacts which have little or no significance for the particular development in question will need only very brief treatment to indicate that their possible relevance has been considered”.

1.3.7 To this end, the ES and scope of the EIA should only be sufficient to understand the proposals and the potential significant environmental effects. It should not be longer than necessary such that the Planning Authority has sufficient information to determine the application.

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1.3.8 The ES will be written to comply with the requirements of Part II of Schedule 4 of the EIA Regulations 2011. It should only consider those environmental aspects where proposals have the potential for significant environmental effects.

1.3.9 The ES should be viewed alongside and in the context of the wider Planning Application and supporting documents (not required as part of the ES).

1.3.10 The results of the EIA process will be reported in the ES. The ES will read as a single source and compilation of environmental information and it is envisaged the information will be compiled as follows:

 Volume 1 – Environmental Statement (ES);

 Volume 2 – Technical Appendices and Figures; and

 Volume 3 – Non-Technical Summary.

1.3.11 This information will be in addition to all other planning application documents comprising the Planning Application Forms, Planning Statement and supporting (non-ES) reports.

1.3.12 Further meetings and consultation undertaken with Staffordshire County Council, and representations made by Walsall Council in respect of Shire Oak Quarry as part of the Mineral Local Plan Examination have been used to refine the scope of the Environmental Statement in respect of the Proposed Development.

1.3.13 Taking note of the Proposed Development and current baseline situation, the ES has included for the following environmental aspects, where there was potential for significant environmental effects:

 Air Quality (Dust);

 Noise;

 Ecology;

 Landscape and Visual;

 Agriculture and Soils; and

 The Water Environment (Hydrogeology and Hydrology).

1.3.14 Each chapter of the ES shall consider, as a composite part of the individual assessments, health, amenity and climate change implications. Whilst potential effects on health and pollution may necessarily be considered as part of the individual chapter, these aspects are also subject to separate legislation and regulatory controls, licensing and consenting procedures and will therefore not be duplicated in the ES.

1.3.15 Notwithstanding the above assessments, the planning application as a whole is supported by other technical reports/surveys either to inform proposals or the assessment process. Where significant environmental effects are not predicted based on previous advice, supporting reports are presented as standalone reports in support of the application and the other technical assessments undertaken. Specifically, the following have been undertaken in support of the application:

 Transport Statement: non-EIA report as the projected vehicle numbers are below historic

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consented levels and no changes to access is proposed (see Appendix G);

 Historical and Archaeological Appraisal: non-EIA report as no significant concerns have been raised in respect of cultural heritage or archaeology in previous scoping opinions and consultations (see Appendix F); and

 Arboricultural Survey: non-EIA report as work comprised a survey report to inform development and other technical assessments e.g. Ecology and Landscape (see Appendix E). It is noted that an Arboriculture Assessment was not specifically requested under SCO.68/809MW, which comprised a larger loss of woodland than proposed.

1.4 THE ENVIRONMENT AGENCY AND PERMITTING

1.4.1 In addition to planning permission, Shire Oak Quarry is also regulated separately by the Environment Agency in particular respect of Environmental Permitting. The Existing Quarry Area (see below) has the benefit of Environmental Permits for inert waste landfill (ref: EAWML/40059) and waste recycling (ref: EPR/BB3200LW). The permits would be extended for the Proposed Eastern Extension area (see below), as required.

1.5 DEFINITIONS

 ‘the Operator’ and ‘the Applicant’ – JPE Holdings Ltd.

 ‘the Agent’ and ‘CEL’ – Crestwood Environmental Ltd.

 ‘the Quarry Permission’ – Extant Planning Permission L.13/13/809MW (see Figure 2 in Appendix C).

 ‘the Recycling Permission’ - Extant Planning Permission L.13/12/809MW (see Figure 3 in Appendix C).

 ‘the Permitted Development’ – is the existing permitted operations, development and restoration scheme (as per consents above).

 ‘the Proposed Eastern Extension’– is the additional area of land east of Shire Oak Quarry that will be subject to mineral extraction operations (including soil storage areas etc.) outside that currently permitted (see Figure 4 in Appendix C).

 ‘the Existing Quarry Area’ – is the existing land and quarry development, as it exists today, within the planning boundary line relating to the Quarry Permission.

 ‘the Application Site’ or ‘the Site’– is the existing area of land within the application boundary relating to the Proposed Eastern Extension area and the Existing Quarry (see Figure 5 in Appendix C).

 ‘the Proposed Development’ – is what planning consent is being sought for as defined in Section 3, including:

∙ The eastward extension of Shire Oak Quarry to facilitate the enlargement (extension in size) of the extraction area, and the proposed operations within, utilising the existing infrastructure at the Existing Quarry; and

∙ The revised amalgamated restoration scheme (for the Site plus the existing quarry);

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∙ Extension of time of consented operations from 2023 to the end of 2028, to facilitate the additional mineral release and working; and

∙ Consolidation of all planning consents.

 ‘the Additional Mineral Extraction’ – the additional mineral reserves to be extracted within the Existing Quarry Area and Proposed Eastern Extension area.

 ‘the Wet Processing Area (Pad)’ or ‘Wash Plant’ – existing wash plant location within the quarry base, consented to be located with the Dry Recycling Area.

 ‘the (Dry) Recycling Area (Pad)’ – the location of dry processing and recycling operations (as per the Recycling Permission) in a raised central area of the Existing Quarry Area.

1.6 SUMMARY OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

1.6.1 The existing consented eastern extraction phase (under the Quarry Permission) is near completion. The existing exposed quarry faces clearly show that the sand and gravel deposits extend eastwards beyond the Existing Quarry Area. The Proposed Development includes an easterly extension to the boundary of the Existing Quarry Area to cover two adjoining fields. The Proposed Development comprises the following key aspects:

 The consolidation of the existing Quarry and Recycling Permissions in to a single overall planning permission covering the entire Site with revised proposals.

 Continuation of recycling operations, as consented, during the operational time periods to facilitate aggregate processing and restoration material provision.

 Accounting for the mineral extension area, extend the overall life of operations to achieve restoration by up to 5 years from 31 December 2023 (under the Quarry Permission) to 31 December 2028.

1.6.2 The existing Planning Permission boundary (ref: L.13.13.809MW) covers a total area of c. 31.64ha. The additional planning application area totals c. 8.1ha, of which c. 4.1ha will be subject to mineral extraction operations (i.e. around 50% of the adjacent land to the east).

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f 2 THE APPLICATION SITE

2.1 LOCATION

2.1.1 The location of the Existing Quarry Area and its surrounding context are provided on Figure 1, in Appendix C of the Planning Statement. The Site is located approximately 1 kilometre to the southwest of Brownhills Town Centre and on the northeastern boundary of Walsall Wood (NGR: SK 061 041). The Existing Quarry Area covers an area of c. 31.6 hectares and the Proposed Eastern Extension is c. 8.1ha. The Additional Mineral Extraction Area is c. 4.67ha (excluding existing operational working).

2.2 THE SITE, SURROUNDING ENVIRONS AND CONSTRAINTS

2.2.1 The Site is situated in the eastern quadrant of the existing cross roads between the A461 (Lichfield Rd.) and the A452 (Chester Rd.), see Figure 1 in Appendix C.

2.2.2 The closest residential properties to the Site comprise existing premises on the southern side of Lichfield Road which border the northern boundary of the Site and those on the western side of Chester Road. Chester Road and properties off Lichfield Road constrain the Site to the north and west.

2.2.3 The next nearest settlement is Stonnall Village, over 300m southeast of Shire Oak Quarry. The boundary of the Existing Quarry Area is c.330m northwest of the property boundaries at Glenwood Rise, Stonnall, at their nearest point. The planning application boundary in respect of the Proposed Eastern Extension will be c. 242m north-northwest of the properties at Glenwood Rise at their nearest point.

2.2.4 At the time of this application (November 2016), Fishpond Cottage (which lies directly south of the boundary of the Existing Quarry Area) is a derelict residential building. The property has been uninhabited for some time. The property has been subject to fly-tipping and heavy vandalism. It is thought that there is currently no valid planning permission in place for replacement of this property (i.e. the previous planning permission was due to lapse on 17th July 2016), with no works understood to have commenced. As such, the planning application does not treat the property as being highly sensitive when compared to other adjacent dwellings at Lichfield Road and Chester Road.

2.2.5 Shire Oak Quarry has historically been the subject of mineral extraction operations and is currently being restored in accordance with existing approved plans. The existing site entrance and reception/office facilities are situated at the southwestern boundary of the Site. Peripheral areas around the northern, western and southern boundaries of the Site are deemed historically restored comprising dense plantation and self-set woodland areas.

2.2.6 The areas to the east of the Existing Quarry Area (the Proposed Eastern Extension area) comprise arable (Best and Most Versatile) farmland of medium to large scale fields, boundaed a series of hedgerows. No public footpaths or utilities cross the Site.

2.2.7 The Site falls outside any environmentally sensitive location such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, National Parks, international conversation sites, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, World Heritage Sites, Special Protection Areas, Special Areas of Conservation and Ramsar sites. The nearest designated area is Shire Oak Local Nature Reserve (LNR) to the west, separated from the

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Site by Chester Road (see Figure 7 in Appendix C). The Site falls within the Green Belt.

Ownership and Control

2.2.8 The Applicant owns the northern parts of the Existing Quarry Area. The southern parts of the Existing Quarry Area are currently operated by the Applicant under a lease agreement with the landowners. The Proposed Eastern Extension Area is under separate third party ownership, including mineral rights. Areas within the Proposed Eastern Extension Area will be (pending planning permission) subject to a new lease agreement to operate the quarry and undertake restoration. The composite planning application boundary will coincide with the boundary of land under the applicants control (subject to final agreements), as per Figure 5, with no formal works as part of this planning application proposed outside of the planning boundary.

2.3 PLANNING HISTORY, OBLIGATIONS AND CONSTRAINTS

2.3.1 Previously, a number of planning permissions have been issued for quarrying, landfilling and recycling operations at Shire Oak, including variations to various conditions of permissions. The most relevant and significant planning history is summarised below:

 L.920568 dated 12 June 2002 permission to rationalise the existing consents, quarry access relocation and restoration by infilling. The permission was subject to a section 106 legal agreement signed 12 June 2002 to give up earlier permissions for sand and gravel working and processing and a ready mixed concrete plant.

 L.920568 D1 dated 30 August 2002 approved details in compliance with condition 32 of planning permission L.920568 – wheel wash.

 L.920568 D2 809 MW dated 23 May 2003 approved details in compliance with condition 23 of planning permission L.920568 – noise monitoring.

 L.04/22/809 MW dated 11 March 2005 permission to vary the approved restoration contours (proposals to include a front-end aggregate recycling facility were withdrawn). This later permission requires the winning and working of sand and gravel and the export off-site of stockpiles of sand and gravel to cease by 31 December 2013. Also the importation of fill material to cease by 30 June 2014 and final restoration contours to be achieved by 31 October 2014. The permission limits. The waste types to inert, solid, non-biodegradable, non- putrescible wastes.

 Permission L.11/02/809 MW relates to the development of an aggregates recycling facility including associated plant and storage areas, wholly within the quarry boundary.

 Permission L.13/13/809 MW dated 12 September 2014 relates to the extension of time of consented mineral and landfill operations (and regularisation) to complete restoration by 31st December 2023.

 Permission L.13/12/809 MW dated 12 September 2014 relates to the extension of time of consented recycling operations (and regularisation) to 30th June 2023.

 L.13/13/809MW D1 and L.13/12/809MW D1 relate to approved wheel wash details.

2.3.2 Additionally, parts of the Existing Quarry Area and adjacent areas to the east of the quarry are also believed to be covered by retained areas of Planning Permission IDO/L/4, whereby parts of the

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Proposed Development are also potentially covered by this historic planning consent that was never fully relinquished or surrendered by previous legal agreements (see Plate 2).

2.4 SHIRE OAK QUARRY – CURRENT SITUATION

2.4.1 The Existing Quarry Area has historically been the subject of mineral extraction and landfill operations and is currently being restored in accordance with existing approved plans.

2.4.2 Peripheral areas of the Existing Quarry Area fronting Chester Road and the northern and southern boundaries of the Site have historically been deemed restored, comprising dense plantation and self-set woodland areas.

2.4.3 The eastern and northern part of the Existing Quarry Area comprises the remaining mineral reserves, with northern and central areas comprising material/overburden stockpiling and existing wet processing operations. Restoration and infilling operations are occurring concurrently throughout central areas of the Existing Quarry Area. A large settling pond (lagoon) is present in the base of the quarry at the northeastern boundary. A former silt lagoon, located in the northern extent of the Existing Quarry Area, has previously been closed and planted with Osier and Alder trees.

2.4.4 See Figure 6 in Appendix C (which shows the existing site survey), Plate 1 (which shows the existing quarry on an aerial photograph) and site photos taken in 2016 (in Appendix D).

2.4.5 The Recycling Pad is located on a raised area in the central part of the Existing Quarry Area (as defined under the Recycling Permission), adjacent to the current restoration area (Infill Phase) and the existing internal haul route.

2.4.6 The current situation is that mineral reserves within the Existing Quarry Area are near exhausted and infilling is progressing towards the eastern quarry face. Demand for primary aggregate reserves have increased meaning reserves are projected to be diminished around 2 years ahead of schedule and progressive infilling will begin sterilising known mineral reserves east of the Existing Quarry Area. These operational factors form the basis of the Proposed Development and need for development (see Section 4).

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Plate 1 Aerial Photo f Shire Oak Quarry and boundary (© Google™ earth 2013)

Access

2.4.7 Access to the Quarry is gained via Chester Road (A452). The Proposed Development will utilise the existing site entrance and internal access roads associated with the existing development.

2.4.8 A wheel wash is present on site and must be used by all HGV vehicles leaving the quarry. All HGV vehicles must be sheeted as a Condition of the permissions. Mud and debris on the highways is specifically covered by existing Conditions that are proposed to remain unchanged.

2.4.9 Existing traffic calming measures, including signage and speed humps will be retained as part of the proposals.

2.5 THE EASTERN EXTENSION AREA – CURRENT SITUATION

2.5.1 The Proposed Eastern Extension area comprises the mineral reserves directly east of Shire Oak Quarry and totals c. 8.1ha in area. The Additional Mineral Extraction, within this area will occupy c. 4.1ha of land.

2.5.2 The Proposed Eastern Extension area currently comprises Best and Most Versatile Agricultural Land, comprising two arable fields separated by a hedgerowa. Hedgerows, with trees, bound the northern and eastern boundary of the Proposed Eastern Extension area and are of variable quality and often gappy. A small southwestern area of a field to the north is also included to facilitate restoration. See site photos taken in 2016 (in Appendix D).

2.5.3 The Proposed Eastern Extension area will extend the Site no closer to properties on the Lichfield Road or Chester Road. The planning application boundary in respect of the Proposed Eastern

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Extension area (see Figure 4 in Appendix C) will be c. 242m north-northwest of the properties at Glenwood Rise at their nearest point; however, mineral extraction will be no closer than c. 300m distance of Stonnall at its closest point.

2.5.4 The northern field (within the Proposed Eastern Extension area) lies at a level of between c. 145 and 148mAOD, falling away to the south to a level of around 142mAOD at the southern boundary of the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

3 DEVELOPMENT DETAILS

3.1 EXISTING PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT

The Quarry Permission

3.1.1 Permission L.13.13.809 MW (‘the Quarry Permission’) relates to the winning and working of sand and gravel, use of ancillary facilities and the importation of inert materials leading to the restoration of the whole site to a combination of agriculture, nature conservation and woodland afteruses. The existing planning boundary covers an area of c. 31.64ha. See Figure 2 in Appendix C.

3.1.2 In accordance with the approved quarry and restoration plans, the Quarry Permission requires that:

 The winning and working of sand and gravel shall cease no later than 31 December 2019 - Condition 3;

 The export off-site of stockpiled sand and gravel (won from the Site) shall cease no later than 31 December 2019, with the export of secondary sand and gravel product… ceasing no later than 30 June 2023 - Condition 4;

 The importation of fill material shall cease no later than 30 June 2023 - Condition 5; and

 The final contours shown on the ‘Concept Restoration Plan’ (Dwg no. CE-SO0575-DW02a) shall be achieved no later than 31 December 2023 - Condition 6.

3.1.3 Final areas entering aftercare, inclusive of seeding and planting, would commence in 2024.

The Recycling Permission

3.1.4 Permission L.13/12/809 MW (‘the Recycling Permission’) relates to the development of an aggregates recycling facility including associated plant and storage areas, wholly within the quarry boundary (‘the Dry Recycling Pad’). See Figure 3 in Appendix C.

3.1.5 The Recycling Permission requires that:

 The recycling operations hereby permitted shall cease no later than 30 June 2023 - Condition 4; and

 …the Quarry Site shall be restored and subject to aftercare in accordance with the requirements of permission L.13/13/809MW.

Interim Development Order

3.1.6 Additionally, parts of the existing Shire Oak Quarry area and adjacent areas east of the quarry are

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also considered to be covered by retained areas of Planning Permission IDO/L/4, whereby parts of the Proposed Development are also potentially covered by this historic planning consent that was never fully relinquished or surrendered by previous legal agreements.

3.1.7 The Section 106 legal agreement for Shire Oak Quarry (dated 12th June 2002 – ref: 4/PLD/PC412C) stated that, upon grant of planning permission L.920568, the signatories will “not implement or further implement any rights pursuant to any of the permissions … listed below”, where in respect of permission IDO/L/4 (10/10/1996) the S106 indicates that extraction of sand and gravel will be implemented further “except for the area hatched orange on Plan 2(a)” (see Plate 2). As such, it is considered that the hatched areas on Plan 2(a) were not relinquished from IDO/L/4.

Plate 2 Plan 2a from S106 Legal Agreement

3.2 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

3.2.1 Full details of the Proposed Development are included in Chapter 2 and 3 of the ES, which cover operational and restoration proposals respectively. The Proposed Development is summarised in Section 1.6.

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Surrender and Consolidation of Planning Permissions

3.2.2 The intention of the Proposed Development is that a single consolidated planning permission be issued to cover the Proposed Eastern Extension area and ongoing consented mineral processing, infilling, recycling operations and restoration activities within the Existing Quarry Area.

3.2.3 To achieve this:

 The existing consented operations under the Quarry Permission (L.13.13.809MW) will continue in line with the current situation and existing planning Conditions (except where regularised, e.g. revised restoration proposals). Many of the extant planning Conditions would be replicated on any new planning permission and extended to cover the Proposed Eastern Extension area. The relevant provisions would be consolidated under a single new permission replacing the extant Quarry Permission.

 Recycling operations would continue as consented under the Recycling Permission (L.13.12.809MW). Many of the extant planning Conditions would be replicated on any new planning permission and duplicate Conditions removed. The relevant provisions of the existing consent would be consolidated under a single new permission and the extant Recycling Permission surrendered. None of the consented operations under the Recycling Permission will be extended in extent to cover the Proposed Eastern Extension area (i.e. the location of these operations would remain unchanged).

 A new planning permission would be issued consolidating the relevant provisions of the Quarry and Recycling Permissions and any other provisions (planning Conditions) in respect of the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

3.2.4 This will simplify the planning situation and provide a single point of reference in terms of planning controls.

3.2.5 Additionally, IDO/L/4 may also need to be considered as part of the consolidation process.

Mineral Extraction and Processing

3.2.6 The total extent of Additional Mineral Extraction is shown on Figures 8 to 10 in Appendix C.

3.2.7 The current eastern-most quarry boundary (and existing mineral face) will be progressively widened eastwards to cover up to 4.1ha of land east of the Existing Quarry Area. Additionally, the existing consented extraction phase within the quarry will be widened southwards over a c. 0.6ha area, within the confines of the boundary of the existing Quarry Permission, to expose the entire known mineral resource immediately east of the Existing Quarry Area.

3.2.8 The phased mineral extraction within the Proposed Eastern Extension area would comprise:

 Total additional extraction of c. 1.4 million cubic metres of material. Of this, saleable sand and gravel aggregate is predicted to be c. 1 million cubic metres (equivalent to c. 1.65 million tonnes based on a 1.65 conversion factor).

 On average, total exports from Shire Oak Quarry would be c. 250,000 tonnes per annum (accounting for both primary mineral and ongoing recycling operations), or up to 300,000 tonnes during peak demand periods.

 The total extraction depth will be between 35m – 40m below surface levels. The maximum

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depth of extraction would be 110mAOD (as per the existing consented situation) and would be undertaken in accordance with the principles of Planning Condition 17 (planning permission L.13.13.809MW) which requires that extraction be limited to the maximum extraction depths “or to within two metres of the water table, whichever is higher”.

 Mineral extraction gradients would be at a maximum overall gradient of 1 in 1, or benched in 10m – 15m depth sections to provide an equivalent overall maximum gradient.

 The remaining extracted (non-saleable) material will be reused in restoration and infilling.

Recycling Operations

3.2.9 The consented recycling operations will continue in line with, and as consented under, the Recycling Permission. The recycling operations will remain where currently located. In conjunction with processing operations consented under the Quarry Permission, Shire Oak Quarry will continue to recover material for infilling and production of restoration materials, as well as produce recycled and blended aggregate products. The recycling operations will be undertaken over the operational life of the Site, and removed upon restoration.

Infilling for Restoration

3.2.10 Infilling for restoration will continue in line with consented operations and the planning Conditions of the Quarry Permission. Infilling operations will be extended to cover the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

3.2.11 Non-saleable extracted material (i.e. silts and unprocessed overburden) will be progressively reused in restoration, either as fill material or soil-forming material. All soils from the Proposed Eastern Extension area will have been stripped and stored for re-use in restoration.

3.2.12 The current approved restoration scheme (Drawing no. CE-SO0575-DW02b) allows for the Existing Quarry Area to be entirely infilled to, or above, surrounding land levels. The proposed revised landform allows for a lower level landform whereby the existing silt lagoon and immediate surrounding quarry faces, are retained as a wetland area, together with other outcrops around the Existing Quarry Area. The proposed revised landform has been designed to ensure that the importation required for deposition to achieve the Revised Restoration Masterplan landform is roughly equivalent to the total infill currently required to restore the Existing Quarry Area in accordance with the approved restoration plan. The intention has been that the overall level of infill required should not increase beyond existing requirements to achieve the approved restoration.

3.2.13 The total importation volume required to achieve the proposed revised restoration landform is roughly equivalent to the existing consented situation, at circa 2.65 million tonnes (as of February 2016, the infill requirement to restore the Site to the consented restoration landform was approximately 2.8 million tonnes). The remainder of the restoration infill requirement will be met using on-site overburden and mineral waste recovered from the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

3.2.14 All backfilling will be undertaken using inert soils, soil-forming and waste material from Construction, Demolition and Excavation Waste (CDEW) streams. No contaminated, municipal or biodegradable waste material will be imported to the Site. Conditions 11 and 12 of the existing Quarry Permission will continue to be complied with:

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 “No waste material shall be imported onto the Site other than inert, solid, non-biodegradable, non-putrescible waste materials” – Condition 11.

 “The final layer of waste deposited, to a depth of 1 metre, shall be kept free of all materials likely to interfere with the final restoration and afteruse of the Site” – Condition 12.

3.2.15 Whilst the extant Environmental Permit allows for 346,000 tonnes of imported material per annum for deposition, the revised restoration, in conjunction with the proposed timescales, requires an average of 225,000 tonnes of imported material (for deposit) per annum.

3.3 RESTORATION

3.3.1 The full details of the restoration proposals are set out in Chapter 3 of the ES. A comparison of the Existing and Proposed Restoration Composition is shown at Table 2. This covers the existing Site and the Proposed Eastern Extension Area. A revised restoration masterplan has been devised for the entire planning application area.

3.3.2 The Revised Restoration Masterplan makes provision for the establishment of a mosaic of land uses and habitats, where the primary land uses comprise areas of acid grassland mosaic, agricultural land (including areas of best and most versatile land) and broadleaved native woodland. Species- rich hedgerows, a large retained pond/lagoon (with aquatic and marginal vegetation and areas of shingle), and sandstone outcrops provide further variety to the restored habitats.

3.3.3 The residual characteristics upon restoration will contribute a number of desirable elements, retaining and enriching the essential aspects of the landscape character area through inclusion of ‘High’ and ‘Medium’ priority habitats for the Landscape Character Types including lowland acid grassland, neutral grasslands, field margins, ponds, species-rich hedgerow and woodland habitats. It is relevant to note that:

 The scheme comprises a detailed and comprehensive restoration strategy, which has been the subject of a detailed design exercise to ensure that it is feasible and deliverable;

 The revised restoration landform to a lower level ensures there is not nett increase in import (for infilling) over the operational period compared to the consented situation and more water can be controlled within the Site, whilst ensuring the mineral resource is maximised;

 The proposed restoration scheme builds on previously approved plans, whilst facilitating greater habitat diversity and maintaining the ability to restore high quality agricultural land;

 The revised proposals allow for enhanced phased restoration opportunities and habitat enhancements; and

 Unlike the existing consented situation, provision for permissive public access in terms of circular walking routes, can be provided for the Site which responds positively to previous planning permission resolutions and advice.

3.3.4 The restoration proposals are considered sustainable and will provide for a beneficial long-term multi-functional afteruse.

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Table 2 Existing and Proposed Restoration Composition

Existing Proposed

Restoration Restoration

Area Scheme Scheme

Extension (Existing Site) (Whole Site)

Landcover

TotalBaseline

TotalProposed

andcoverelements

Changein quantity

as Existing Existing as

Existing

Proposed Proposed

Shown as Shown as

/Retained /Retained

Shown as Existing Shown LandscapeSensitivity of individual

Agricultural land (ha) High 7.9 10.6 0.0 18.5 21.2 0.0 21.2 +2.7

Acid Grassland (ha) High 0.0 4.1 0.0 4.1 4.5 0.0 4.5 +0.4

Ponds (ha) Medium to High 0.0 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.6 0.0 0.6 +0.5

Hedgerow (m) Low to Medium 1,102 190 1,190 2,482 867 1,877 2,744 +262 Inland Cliffs (m) Low 0 0 0 0 140 0 140 +140

Hedgerow Trees (No.) Low to Medium 20 165 48 233 69 164 233 0

Woodland (ha) Low to Medium 0.0 10.0 3.3 13.3 7.8 4.6 12.4 -0.9

Other Grassland, Tall Low 0.2 3.4 0.0 3.6 0.9 0.0 0.9 -2.7 Ruderal, Bare ground (ha) Combined Total (ha) 39.6 39.6

3.4 HOURS OF OPERATION

3.4.1 The proposed Hours of Operation are unchanged from the consented situation, as per Planning Condition 18 (permission ref. L.13.13.809MW) and Condition 18 (permission ref. L.13.12.809MW). Overall, mineral extraction and infill operations are consented between the hours of 0700 – 1900 (Monday to Friday) and 0700 – 1300 (Saturdays). In respect of recycling operations, the consented operating hours are 0700 – 1800 (Monday to Friday) and 0700 – 1300 (Saturday).

3.5 LIFE OF OPERATIONS

3.5.1 The existing planning permissions for Shire Oak Quarry allow mineral extraction until the end of 2019 and infilling and recycling operation until mid-2023. The restoration landform would be achieved by the end of 2023, with final seeding, planting and other aftercare commencing in 2024. The Proposed Development would comply with the following proposed timescales:

 Completion of final primary aggregate mineral extraction and associated export of stockpiled primary aggregate by 30th June 2025 at the latest, or by the earliest date possible;

 Completion of infilling operations by 30th June 2028;

 Cessation of consented recycling operations by 30th June 2028; and

 Completion of final restoration contours by 31st December 2028.

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3.5.2 Overall, the additional timescales to achieve restoration for the Site would be up to 5 years after the existing consented operations. Where operations could be completed earlier, they would be.

3.5.3 Additionally, there would be a phased programme of restoration works and enhancements, undertaken across the Site. These would include:

 Completion of the permanent southeastern peripheral landscape mound within a 2 month period following issue of the new planning permission and completion of the associated native woodland planting (totalling over 1.1ha) within the first available planting season and within 12 months of planning permission;

 Advanced woodland and hedgerow planting works to non-operational areas within the first available planting season and within 12 months of planning permission;

 Completion of soil placement and regrading east of the additional mineral extraction area, with subsequent agricultural management, within 6 months of planning permission;

 Review and agreement of woodland management works and restoration enhancements to currently unworked quarry/infill areas within 12 months of planning permission; and

 The permanent retention of exposed quarry faces to the north and east of the existing silt lagoon that would otherwise be lost in accordance with the approved restoration scheme (due to infilling).

3.6 VEHICLE MOVEMENTS AND ACCESS

3.6.1 The existing site entrance (access point) and associated site offices, weighbridge, welfare facilities and wheel wash will remain as per the existing consented situation. All vehicle access will be via the Chester Road, as existing. No alternative or additional vehicle access points are proposed.

3.6.2 Traffic movements will remain below historical levels associated with the waste and mineral operations at Shire Oak Quarry and in line with existing vehicle movements.

3.6.3 Historically, an average of over 200,000 tonnes per annum of primary mineral has been exported from Shire Oak Quarry, in conjunction with ongoing landfilling operations, in accordance with the limit of 346,000 tonnes of inert materials imposed by the extant Environmental Permit for the quarry. Baseline traffic surveys from 2004 identified that this equated to an average of 200 HGV deliveries per day associated with waste activities (400 HGV movements) and 50 HGV deliveries per day associated with mineral extractions activities (100 HGV movements per day).

3.6.4 Condition 19 of the Recycling Permission limits the total number of vehicles delivering waste to the Recycling Pad to 100 loads (200 vehicle movements) per full working day. It is noted that recovered material to be exported from the Recycling Pad is generally back-hauled using HGV’s associated with the importation of inert material, in order to reduce traffic impact and doubling up on HGV requirements. In conjunction with ongoing operations at Shire Oak Quarry, the vehicle movements associated with the Recycling Permission were not considered to give rise to additional vehicle movements in excess of the historic average for the quarry (circa 500 (two-way) traffic movements associated with infilling and extraction operations). There are no specific planning Conditions limiting vehicle movements relating to the extant Quarry Permission, with the limiting factor being the importation and exportation tonnages to and from Shire Oak Quarry, as highlighted above.

3.6.5 Overall, the Proposed Development allows for average total exports of c. 250,000 tonnes per year,

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accounting for primary, recycled and associated ‘blended’ aggregates. To achieve restoration, the Proposed Development allows for imports for deposit of between c. 200,000 and 250,000 tonnes per annum.

3.6.6 Based on overall average 15 tonne loads, HGV loads associated with export will, on average, be 74 per day (or 148 two-way traffic movements) and imports will be around 57 loads per day (or 114 two-way movements). In reality, it is noted that average mineral loads are generally between 18 and 20 tonnes and average inert waste loads are generally between 10 and 12 tonnes. Therefore, to accommodate the Proposed Development, an average of 262 two-way vehicle movements per day are predicted.

3.6.7 Based on the above, and based on ongoing permitted and operational principles (including for backhauling where appropriate to limit vehicle numbers), it is anticipated that the projected vehicle movements will be below historic traffic movements and in line with existing traffic generation, where the historic average for the Site has been 500 two-way HGV movements. It is also noted that the export of primary mineral from Shire Oak Quarry would cease by mid-2025, further reducing vehicle movements associated with the quarry.

3.6.8 No additional impacts associated with traffic generation are predicted over and above the existing consented and historic situation. The existing access point and internal access tracks will continue to be used, with the road network considered sufficient, in accordance with previous assessments, to cater for the proposed traffic movements over the lifetime of the Proposed Development, with the main source of impact being an increase in the time period traffic movements will occur beyond the current permitted timescales of the quarry.

3.7 INFRASTRUCTURE AND MINERAL PROCESSING PLANT

3.7.1 The existing site entrance (vehicle access), vehicle reception areas, wheel wash, weighbridge and site offices will remain as existing for the duration of operations. Mineral processing operations will continue as existing, within the Existing Quarry Area. No mineral processing operations will be undertaken within the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

3.7.2 The CDE Wash Plant will remain as existing, albeit relocated as approved, to facilitate operations. The wash plant layout/configuration is shown on consented drawing no. SP492-LAY-A400.

3.7.3 Other mobile processing plant is also currently present on-site, facilitating both mineral and recycling operations. To account for plant machinery updates and upgrades, the updated list of mobile plant to be used on-site in relation to all existing consented operations would comprise the following (or similar):

 McCloskey S190 (Screener 4-Way);

 Powerscreen XR400 (Jaw Crusher);

 Powerscreen 1150 (Cone Crusher); and

 Powerscreen 2100 (Screener 3-Way).

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3.7.4 All material will be continue to be extracted and moved using existing mobile equipment, including long-arm and 360-degree excavators, backactors, front wheel loaders and articulated trucks. There will be no new built development associated with the Proposed Development.

3.7.5 Additionally, to reduce internal vehicle movements and where practical to do so, an internal conveyor system may be used to transport material between extraction, processing and stocking areas.

3.8 SITE SECURITY

3.8.1 The current security provisions for the Site are fit for purpose and can be extended where required to the Proposed Eastern Extension area. All security features will be kept to a sufficient standard to reasonably prevent unauthorised access to the Site.

3.8.2 The Site is securely fenced, therefore no additional security measures are proposed as part of this application. In addition to security fencing, CCTV cameras are installed at the Site, such as at the site entrance and reception areas.

3.8.3 All plant and equipment etc. will be kept in a secure area within the facility boundary and immobilised when not in use. The site security provisions are fit for purpose and will be kept to a sufficient standard to reasonably prevent unauthorised access to the Site that is not authorised by the Operator.

3.9 STAFFING

3.9.1 All existing offices, incorporating suitable welfare facilities and adequate parking facilities, will be retained as existing.

3.9.2 The Proposed Development is anticipated to result in the continuation of c. 30 jobs / employment opportunities at Shire Oak associated with the operation of the quarry, aggregate recycling operations, site offices and associated haulage operations.

3.9.3 This does not include for wider employment created linked to other haulage operations and wider construction activities supported by the mineral and waste operations.

3.10 PROPOSED PLANNING CONDITIONS

3.10.1 The intention of the Proposed Development has been to consolidate existing planning permissions and conditions, whilst continuing to operate in accordance with these baseline planning controls wherever possible. An analysis showing the planning conditions proposed to be retained (removing duplication) and retention of compliance with existing controls is outlined at Appendix H.

3.11 GEOLOGY

3.11.1 Various geological information has been presented to Council and has been reviewed and refined over the last 20 years.

3.11.2 Review of the British Geological Survey (BGS) website shows that the bedrock geology of the Site comprises the Kidderminster Formation, which is a Principal Aquifer and part of the Sherwood Sandstone Group (http://mapapps.bgs.ac.uk/geologyofbritain/home.html). The Kidderminster

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Formation is characterised by pebbly sandstones and conglomerates with a sand matrix. It lies unconformably on the Alveley Member, which is classified as a mudstone with sandstone beds. The BGS data shows that there are no superficial deposits at the Site.

3.11.3 The geological (sand and gravel) reserve which the Proposed Development seeks to extract is situated immediately south and east of the existing mineral extraction phase at Shire Oak Quarry. The mineral resources are clearly visible in the existing quarry faces.

3.11.4 A Geology report was undertaken in 2007, for the entirety of the two fields east of Shire Oak Quarry and the area under the woodland within the southeastern boundary of Shire Oak Quarry. This report stated that “the site geology consists of soft sandstones with pebble beds, overlain by upper mottled sandstone (rocksand). Below these units are the lower sands and gravels which the quarry also extracts.”

3.11.5 The 1989 Geology summary of the Triassic Kidderminster Sandstone Formation (Bunter Pebble Beds) for Shire Oak Quarry showed that the Upper Sandstone was 17m thick, Upper Gravel was 12 – 15m thick, Middle Sandstone was 3 – 7m thick and the Lower Gravel was 15 – 17m thick.

3.11.6 The 2007 geology report indicated 3 extraction scenarios that indicated that there was between c. 1.4 million tonnes (c. 825,000m3) and c. 2.5 million tonnes (c. 1,470,000 m3) of saleable mineral in the eastern extension area. It was indicated that there is between 819,000 m3 and 1,165,000 m3 of overburden. Assumptions for extraction include the extraction depth being 110mAOD (i.e. at or above the water table level), the total extraction of the entire extension area, extraction face slopes of 1 in 1 gradient and conversion factors of 1.7t/m3 for sands and gravel and 1.9t/m3 for rocksand.

3.11.7 Historic borehole logs were drilled immediately east of the existing quarry boundary to establish the geological reserve at the eastern boundary of the quarry and are broadly representative of the Additional Mineral Extraction Area (Boreholes 1988-1 and 1988-2). The locations of the boreholes are shown below.

Plate 3 Summary of Geological Boreholes and Locations

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3.11.8 Further to this, the geology information indicated that, in the vicinity of the Site, the Triassic strata dips at angle of about 10˚ to the northeast. A small number of faults are present, but these seldom displace the strata by more than a few metres and would not be significant in terms of the available reserve.

3.11.9 As the strata dips to the northeast, this potentially limits the maximum eastern and northern extent of mineral working. As such, the most productive mineral working would be located at the southeast corner of the existing quarry phase and immediately east of the quarry boundary.

3.11.10 As an indication of how the geological reserve would be predicted to change eastwards, based on geological dip and investigations, the Lower Gravels would be predicted to increase in depth such that they were below the maximum proposed depth of extraction c. 60m northeast of the southeastern boundary of the Existing Quarry Area and c. 20m northeast of the central eastern

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parts of the boundary. The Upper Gravels would be predicted to be below the maximum depth of extraction between c. 140m - 150m northeast of southern and central areas of the Existing Quarry Area boundary.

3.11.11 This only accounts for the highly productive Upper and Lower Gravels and is an indication of the ‘mineral dip’ to illustrate eastward extent of working. The Upper and Middle Sandstones also produce the construction sands sold from the quarry, as well as lower productive gravel bands. All material is also able to be blended to form secondary aggregate products.

3.11.12 Additionally, the depth of overburden (rocksand) or Upper Sandstone increases over the reserve, but not uniformly. The surface levels at the southeastern extent of the Additional Mineral Extraction area are at about 140 - 142mAOD. At the northeastern extent the levels are about 146mAOD. Whilst topography generally falls eastwards away from the quarry, deeper overburden can be predicted over the proposed northeastern areas of extraction and would be comparatively shallower to the southeast. This is reflected in the modelled extraction design.

3.11.13 Staffordshire County Council was previously in receipt of a plan (from third parties) illustrating a potential extraction scenario east of Shire Oak Quarry being considered in 2008, representative of the core area of sand and gravel reserve within the Additional Mineral Extraction area and within current working areas at Shire Oak Quarry. This has further informed the modelling of the proposed extraction landform and helps to verify the information above.

3.11.14 The final extraction design has been refined based on further review of geological information, extent of previous working and updated operational efficiencies of the quarry. This includes for widening the existing extraction envelope north of ‘Fishpond Cottage’ to maximise unworked reserves immediately east of an historic silt lagoon, where the mineral reserves are clearly visible in the southernmost quarry face. This also helps to widen the extraction face immediately east of the Existing Quarry Area. This area of reserve was previously overtipped with material to grade the silt lagoon edge in with the adjacent farmland.

3.11.15 To the north, the proposed extraction has also been widened and tied-in with the existing silt lagoon, which allows for the lower level restoration and allows improved restored slope gradients and landform to be incorporated.

3.11.16 Additionally, the maximum extent of proposed mineral working has been defined to allow 1 in 1 extraction gradients or sufficient space for benching to maximise the available reserve.

3.11.17 Based on the geological reserve, the total extraction envelope was modelled and is shown in Figure 9 (see Appendix C). This shows that the northern end of extraction extends to around 80-85m east of the existing quarry boundary at surface level (c. 50m at the quarry base) and in the southern areas of extraction the extraction extends to c. 135m east of the existing quarry boundary at surface level (c. 100 at the quarry base).

3.11.18 The extraction limits have been designed to be both within and maximise the geological extents of the highly productive Upper Gravels, as well as extract available lower gravels immediately east and south of the existing eastern extractive operations. The phasing of operations has been designed to maximise reserves adjacent to Shire Oak Quarry, then progressively moving eastwards to expose mineral within the Additional Mineral Extraction Area, adapting operations to be appropriate to the reserve encountered. The proposed extraction also recognises that further eastward mineral exploration is unlikely based on the geological reserve.

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3.11.19 With the phasing of operations, increasing depths of less productive overburden and rocksand encountered further east across the mineral extraction area can be used as backfill for restoration in previous phases, to manufacture soils and soil forming materials, blended to produce secondary aggregates or facilitate orders for bulk fill material.

3.11.20 Additionally, when an ‘eastern extension’ was initially considered (in the 2007 Geology Report and 2008 Council submissions), recycling (and associated processing) operations were not consented for Shire Oak Quarry and processing was primarily undertaken using dry processing plant. As such the productive capacity of the reserve was limited.

3.11.21 The Applicant has installed a bespoke wash plant at the Site to facilitate mineral and recycling operations (as consented under the Quarry Permission). This improves the efficiency of mineral production.

3.11.22 Further to this, the consented recycling and processing operations allow mineral reserves to be ‘blended’ with imported material to produce a range of secondary or blended aggregates. These operations particularly allow for less productive mineral to be processed and blended, which maximises the commercially viable mineral reserve, whilst also maximising and elongating the overall mineral reserve. In particular the combination of processing equipment and operations currently consented improves the productivity of the Upper Sandstone.

3.11.23 Based on the Applicants experience at the quarry, the process and combination of operations and processing equipment, it is projected the total recovery of saleable aggregate from the Additional Mineral Extraction area to be at least 70%. The extraction landform allows for total additional extraction of c. 1.4 million cubic metres of material. Of this, saleable sand and gravel aggregate is predicted to be c. 1 million cubic metres (equivalent to c. 1.65 million tonnes based on a 1.65 conversion factor).

3.11.24 In conjunction with recycling operations, over the life of extraction operations (c. 8.5 years), total export (primary, secondary and blended aggregates) is projected to be around or in excess of 2 million tonnes, thus sustaining average market supply from Shire Oak Quarry of c. 250,000 tonnes per annum.

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f 4 NEED

4.1 GENERAL

4.1.1 This section outlines the ‘Need’ and justification for the Proposed Development in relation to the main requirements for and benefits of the proposals. Additionally, the Proposed Development is further considered in relation to core socio-economic drivers from the surrounding areas. Overall, it is considered that there are two main economic and environmental drivers for the proposals:

 The safeguarding of known sand and gravel mineral resources and maintaining local mineral supply; and

 The provision of an improved revised restoration scheme.

4.1.2 An eastern extension to Shire Oak Quarry has been under consideration since 2006. Due to diminishing mineral reserves within the Existing Quarry Area and progressive infilling, the safeguarding and release of mineral adjacent to Shire Oak Quarry is now a critical planning consideration.

4.2 SECURING MINERAL SUPPLY

4.2.1 It has already been accepted by Staffordshire County Council, as part of the new Mineral Local Plan for Staffordshire (2015 to 2030), that Shire Oak Quarry is a “Smaller site with important location relative to local markets” (see Section 0).

4.2.2 Shire Oak Quarry is the only operational sand and gravel mineral site that is immediately adjacent to the West Midlands Conurbation, i.e. the Site is directly located on the Walsall / Lichfield District boundary. The quarry has excellent transport links on to the A452 Chester Road (leading north and South) as well as the Lichfield Road (leading east and west). The vast majority of primary and secondary aggregate products supply Walsall borough in the West Midlands Conurbation, supporting local construction projects.

4.2.3 With regards to planning permission L.13/13/809MW, it was projected that mineral supply (primary aggregate) would cease by the end of 2019. However, the rate of demand since 2013 has meant that the remaining mineral reserves are not projected to last past 2017, two years ahead of schedule.

4.2.4 As the UK as whole has left recession and Government has continued to promote and invest in economic growth, particularly in and around the West Midlands conurbation, mineral demand from Shire Oak Quarry (across both primary and secondary aggregates) has increased by 20% between 2014 and 2015. In the first 3 months of 2016, demand has increased by a further 8% compared to the first 3 months of 2015. Demand continues to increase, well in excess of 200,000 tonnes per annum, however, diminishing reserves are constraining supply and fulfilling demand will become increasingly problematic.

4.2.5 Further mineral resources adjacent to Shire Oak Quarry needs to be released to facilitate demand, otherwise increasing mineral resources would need to be supplied from mineral release at alternative quarries or sites in Staffordshire, at increasing distance from Walsall and the West Midlands conurbation. This is not considered immediately necessary, given the resources that can be released at Shire Oak Quarry. Given Shire Oak Quarry’s proximity to key market areas (especially

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the West Midlands Conurbation), the Proposed Development should be viewed positively in terms of the sustainable supply of material to support wider economic growth.

4.2.6 Policy 1 of the new Mineral Local Plan for Staffordshire (2015 to 2030), based on the Staffordshire Local Aggregates Assessment, has planned for provision of 5 million tonnes of sand and gravel supply per annum. This was based on a 10 years sales average, which includes for a period of significantly suppressed demand between 2008 to 2012 during the economic recession.

4.2.7 However, based on the National Guidelines for Aggregate Provision 2005 to 2020, and the latest recommendations of the West Midlands Aggregates Working Party, under sub-regional apportionment, it was recommended that Staffordshire should supply between 6.6 and 6.71 million tonnes of sand and gravel per annum. Additionally, whilst the new Minerals Local Plan has not allowed for this, the first draft Minerals Local Plan projected a need of 5.4 million tonnes, across Staffordshire.

4.2.8 The 5 million tonne sand and gravel production target planned for in the new Minerals Local Plan for Staffordshire should be considered a minimum target and the combination of existing and planned mineral sites/extensions in the local plan only cater for the average production of 5 million tonnes per annum.

4.2.9 Notwithstanding the above, Walsall Council and Birmingham City Council have made representations to Staffordshire relating to a potential undersupply of mineral from Staffordshire in to the West Midlands Conurbation. Birmingham and Walsall Council (in addition to other representations) had concerns relating to the emerging local plan, submitting that increased minerals supply and/or greater flexibility in the plan is required to meet potential minerals demand from within the West Midlands Conurbation.

4.2.10 Additionally, since the plan has been published/submitted, HS2, the M54/M6 link and other major infrastructure projects now appear to be forthcoming during the plan period. Government continues to promote construction and infrastructure developments both nationally and locally to promote economic growth and regeneration, with further announcements anticipated. On 23rd November 2016, the Government announced a £2.3 billion housing infrastructure fund to help provide 100,000 new homes in high-demand areas and a £1.4 billion investment to deliver 40,000 extra affordable homes.

4.2.11 As such, it can be reasonably anticipated that demand for construction materials is likely to increase, particularly from within the West Midlands Conurbation, and maintaining local supply will be imperative.

4.2.12 The West Midlands Metropolitan Area is a nett importer of sand and gravel mineral in support of construction activities. This is evidenced in the ‘West Midlands Metropolitan Area Local Aggregates Assessment (LAA) - November 2015’. This makes a number of statements regarding mineral supply and demand:

 “planned housing and infrastructure requirements for the West Midlands Metropolitan Area will be much higher over the next 10 – 15 years than in the last 10 years. The increased requirement for housing and related infrastructure will therefore generate an increase in demand for construction aggregates over the same period. However, there is currently no reliable method for estimating the quantities of aggregate minerals that will be required cumulatively to support the future planned levels of development”;

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 “most of the aggregate minerals used in the West Midlands Metropolitan Area are sourced from within the West Midlands or the East Midlands. It will therefore be important to ensure that sufficient supplies of aggregate minerals are planned for to support the levels of growth anticipated in the West Midlands Metropolitan Area between now and 2031, not only within the Metropolitan Area itself, but also within the wider West Midlands and East Midlands, where it is not possible to identify sufficient resources more locally”;

 “more than 80% of the sand and gravel used in the [West Midlands Metropolitan] Area came from within the former West Midlands region”;

 “the main source of imported sand and gravel is Staffordshire, which supplied around 65% of the primary land won sand and gravel consumed in the West Midlands Metropolitan Area, accounting for 23% of Staffordshire’s sand and gravel sales”;

 “The Metropolitan Area is likely to continue to rely on imports from other areas going forward, and reliance on imports could increase. It will be important for the mineral planning authorities in the West Midlands Metropolitan Area to engage with the other mineral planning authorities in the East and West Midlands who will be expected to provide a source of aggregate minerals to support development and growth within the Area, to ensure that appropriate provision is made in their local plans”; and

 “The potential for land-won supply of aggregates from within the Metropolitan Area is limited to a relatively small amount of sand and gravel production primarily in Solihull”.

4.2.13 The assessment shows that the West Midlands Metropolitan Area (including Walsall) imports 65% of its mineral from Staffordshire. There is significant concern relating to sustaining supply to meet growing housing and infrastructure demands, as expressed by Birmingham and Walsall Council.

4.2.14 Shire Oak Quarry is a strategically important site in maintaining mineral supply where the vast majority of mineral is supplied in to the West Midlands Metropolitan Area, in particular Walsall. Cessation of mineral production at Shire Oak Quarry will place increasing demand on alternative quarries in Staffordshire. A relatively small increase in demand within the West Midlands Metropolitan Area would place significant pressure on other mineral reserves within Staffordshire, as well as increasing travel time, transportation costs and ultimately mineral costs. This in itself could be a constraint to development.

4.2.15 It should be noted that the supply of primary aggregate mineral from Shire Oak Quarry in to Walsall based on current reserves cannot be predicted beyond 2017 (not accounting for secondary aggregate production), which is two years ahead of schedule. Demand for mineral at Shire Oak Quarry continues to increase.

4.2.16 The release of the adjacent mineral reserves to Shire Oak Quarry would be able to sustain on average 250,000 tonnes of primary and secondary aggregate supply in to the West Midlands Metropolitan Area in support of construction and economic development. The release of the additional mineral reserves is a matter of ‘local’ supply, to account for the cross-boundary relationship between Walsall and Staffordshire and is sustain the current and projected level of demand from Shire Oak Quarry (based on current export rates and enquiries).

4.2.17 The release of the mineral reserves at Shire Oak Quarry would not significantly increase the 5 million tonne annual production target for Staffordshire, which is considered a minimum target and lower than other published projected mineral demand levels. Rather, the release of additional

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mineral from Shire Oak would contribute to maintaining local supplies, catering predominantly for growth in the adjacent metropolitan areas and would help balance ongoing supply and demand issues.

4.2.18 Given the relationship of Shire Oak Quarry to the West Midlands Metropolitan Area, the release of additional mineral from Shire Oak Quarry is not considered to lead to a significant over supply of mineral but would help balance mineral supply, sustaining existing demand from the Site.

4.2.19 It is further noted that the draft Walsall Site Allocations Document (published for consultation in November 2016), has made no specific mineral allocations. It is recognised that Walsall is likely to import much of its mineral requirements from adjacent boroughs/areas. Future sand and gravel provision has also been considered and the document outlines that “No other areas have been identified for future sand and gravel extraction on the SAD Policies Map. The viability and deliverability of working in other parts of the sand and gravel resource area was considered in the SAD & AAP Minerals Study (2015), and no other areas with realistic potential were identified”.

4.2.20 As such, the proximity of Shire Oak Quarry to the local market areas in Walsall and the wider metropolitan area is a critical planning consideration in terms of maintaining mineral supply.

4.2.21 The supply of primary aggregates from Shire Oak Quarry would also not continue beyond 2025. This is significantly short of the new Staffordshire Minerals Local Plan Period (up to 2030), with the Walsall Site Allocation Document (SAD) and Black Country Core Strategy (BCCS) due to run until 2026.

4.2.22 Overall, it can be summarised that the release of further mineral reserves at Shire Oak Quarry is fully justified for the following planning and economic reasons:

 Sustaining existing and projected demand for mineral from Shire Oak Quarry up to early to mid-2025, that would otherwise have to be met from elsewhere, at greater distance from the core market area;

 Maintaining the continuity of local mineral supply in to the West Midlands Metropolitan Area, where the vast majority of mineral is currently transported from Shire Oak Quarry;

 Support mineral demand associated with key growth demands in Lichfield District and southeast Staffordshire;

 The proposed annual sand and gravel production rate at Shire Oak Quarry will not significantly change the annual production target for the whole of Staffordshire (5 million tonnes per annum);

 Shire Oak Quarry is the most proximate quarry in Staffordshire to the West Midland Metropolitan Area. It is strategically located to serve this core market and growth area locally, where the metropolitan area will continue to source over 65% of its mineral resources from Staffordshire;

 The sustainable location of Shire Oak Quarry helps to reduce ‘mineral miles’ i.e. reduce journey times, costs and associated environmental impacts in to the core market areas of the metropolitan areas; and

 The release of further mineral from Shire Oak Quarry will help provide assurances of mineral supply and availability across the Walsall SAD and BCCS plan periods, whilst providing

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sufficient flexibility for Staffordshire to meet its own internal market demand and the demand of adjacent boroughs.

4.2.23 In general, Shire Oak Quarry will maintain local supply, help maintain the landbank in Staffordshire and help to balance existing and increased mineral demand in the early part of the Staffordshire Mineral Local Plan period (in proximity to Walsall), whilst not prejudicing mineral production elsewhere. Shire Oak Quarry is considered a key strategic site, in addition to wider mineral supply, in terms of supporting economic growth and priorities in the West Midlands Metropolitan Area, Staffordshire and wider infrastructure projects.

Minerals Safeguarding

4.2.24 A key part of national and local planning policy in relation to minerals is Mineral Safeguarding. National and local planning policy is clear: mineral should not be needlessly sterilised through other development.

4.2.25 Shire Oak Quarry has planning permission to infill the entire quarry back to near pre-existing levels. This will place waste material (up to 40m depth) directly against the primary aggregate reserves east of Shire Oak Quarry. The effect of this would be to sterilise the adjacent mineral reserves.

4.2.26 The reserve can only be worked so long as access can be maintained through the Existing Quarry Area and such that the mineral can be processed using the existing on site infrastructure. Once the Site is restored, due to the nature, scale and depth of the adjacent reserves, a sustainable future quarry development is unlikely to be commercially viable or acceptable in planning terms at the locality and would directly conflict with previously deposited waste material.

4.2.27 There is also a finite window of opportunity to access the reserve. Infilling of Shire Oak Quarry is progressing and waste infill in approaching toward the existing eastern quarry boundary. Further infill will progressively conflict with adjacent mineral reserves, preventing extraction.

4.2.28 Should the reserves east of Shire Oak Quarry be sterilised or unable to be worked, this would be contrary to planning policy and would be a needless loss of mineral resource, which can currently be sustainably extracted. In turn, the loss of this mineral resource would place pressure on other mineral reserves in the future that may be less sustainably located or have greater environmental consequences.

4.2.29 Shire Oak Quarry is also a main source of mineral entering the West Midlands Metropolitan Area. With Shire Oak Quarry’s consented primary mineral reserves projected to be depleted ahead of schedule, pressure for sustaining mineral supply will fall on to other less proximate quarries, where reserves need to serve both demand in Staffordshire (including growth areas such as Lichfield, Tamworth and Cannock), as well as the West Midlands conurbation.

4.2.30 Both in terms of sustaining local supply and preventing needless mineral sterilisation, further mineral release at Shire Oak Quarry would be strategically justified both in planning and economic development terms.

Recycling and Secondary Aggregates

4.2.31 National and local planning policy also seeks to promote the production and use of secondary and recycled aggregates. Shire Oak Quarry benefits from having planning permission for waste recycling

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and secondary aggregate production, with the Applicant having heavily invested, and being a market leader, in this field.

4.2.32 The recycling operations continue to be justified in terms of enhancing restoration and supply of restoration material. This is imperative for the Site as there are very limited soil resources available for the restoration for Shire Oak Quarry and the recycling operations enable a range of soils and soil forming materials to be produced in support of infilling and restoration. This is the most sustainable way in which a successful restoration at the Site can be achieved.

4.2.33 Additionally, the recycling operations at Shire Oak Quarry almost uniquely positions the Site in terms of being able to produce a full range of sand and gravel products comprising primary, blended and fully recycled aggregates.

4.2.34 In particular, the plant and consented operations on Site allow for primary aggregate reserves to be maximised in a sustainable and efficient manner. This can be predominantly achieved through blending of primary aggregates and imported waste streams. The both increases the total saleable aggregate reserve over the life of operations above the baseline geological reserve and also maximises the mineral reserve by enabling less productive mineral to be exported as a constituent part of various aggregate products.

4.2.35 Not only do the recycling facilities maximise the available mineral resource and aid an efficient and sustainable extraction process, there are a number of further knock on benefits:

 A greater range of mineral products can be produced at Shire Oak Quarry compared to other quarries. This enables the quarry to react to market demand and changes in product requirements;

 A maximised reserve and production of secondary and recycled aggregates reduces demand for other primary aggregate products, helping other quarries to retain mineral reserves, as well as helping to protect other non-worked mineral reserves for future generations; and

 The production of secondary aggregates (predominantly from waste streams) will continue after mineral extraction ceases for a further 3 years. This helps provide a transitional period when primary mineral resources have been exhausted, enabling consumers to source alternative mineral and provide time for other quarry developments to become operational.

4.2.36 This is an increasingly important and growing area in terms of ‘need’. The recycling operations maximise the commercial viability of the reserves at Shire Oak Quarry and enables the production of a greater range of products, whilst facilitating and ensuring the restoration of the Site is achievable.

4.2.37 The recycling operations also push waste up the waste hierarchy and provide an effective waste management facility where suitable material can be used to produce a secondary aggregate material, which can be re-used in construction projects.

4.2.38 These considerations form a core part of the sustainable development that Shire Oak Quarry supports, both in terms of on site development and wider construction projects. In particular, the majority of waste imported to Shire Oak Quarry comes from the West Midlands conurbation, thus the Site offers a turnkey solution, enabling inert waste streams to be handled and recycled at the Site, whilst also providing a range of products to those markets.

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4.3 INERT WASTE INFILL

4.3.1 Shire Oak Quarry has long had planning permission to be infilled to previous levels and above with inert materials. It has long been recognised that quarries in Staffordshire can benefit from infilling to provide for restoration as well as providing waste management facilities for the disposal of material. This is recognised throughout planning policy.

4.3.2 In recent times, national and local waste objectives have aimed to reduce the amount of material going to landfill. Yet this in part has needed to be balanced by demand due to economic development drivers, particular in terms of enhanced rates of land release for housing and industry, as well as regeneration of previously developed areas.

4.3.3 Local planning and waste evidence bases indicate a continued need for landfill, yet at a reducing rate due to wider consideration of waste minimisation targets and recycling. Shire Oak Quarry already goes a long way towards diverting waste streams up the waste hierarchy to support recycling and re-use.

4.3.4 Substantial infilling is still required to provide for a long term successful, beneficial restoration scheme at the Site. To manage competing planning demands, provide for sustainable timescales in terms of operations and account for wider longer term national and local waste minimisation and landfill reduction targets, it has not been considered appropriate to increase the total import requirement to restore the Site.

4.3.5 The intention has been to balance import requirements and restoration demands, by providing for a revised lower level restoration scheme and not increasing the overall infill void capacity of the Site through the Additional Mineral Extraction area.

4.3.6 The total importation volume required to achieve the proposed revised restoration landform is roughly equivalent to the existing consented situation, at circa 2.65 million tonnes (as of February 2016, the infill requirement to restore the Site to the consented restoration landform was approximately 2.8 million tonnes). The remainder of the restoration infill requirement will be met using on-site overburden and mineral waste recovered from the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

4.3.7 As such, the Proposed Development is considered sustainable in terms of import requirements, as the existing infill requirements will be spread over a larger areas and longer time period. The Site can continue to provide a suitable inert landfill facility whilst not proposing to increase the total void capacity available.

4.3.8 As such no further need analysis is considered required in respect of imports. There would be a reduction in average annual infill volumes (for deposit) due to the proposals, but this is not considered significant in light of wider strategic waste priorities and availability of other Sites. Additionally, the recycling operations enable a sustainable waste treatment solution to produce recycled aggregate products, diverting waste up the waste hierarchy.

4.4 RESTORATION ENHANCMENTS AND BENEFITS

4.4.1 Both national and local planning policy requires that restoration enhancements and improvements are pursued wherever practical.

4.4.2 Whilst not only balancing infill requirements, the revised lower level restoration landform will allow for a number of restoration enhancements/benefits over and above the consented restoration

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scheme. These include:

 The retention exposed quarry faces and geological outcrops, that would have otherwise been infilled;

 Provision of a more diverse range of habitats compared to the consented scheme, including agricultural land, acid grassland, enhanced water features, species-rich hedgerows, broadleaved woodland and inland cliffs;

 Existing Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land will be reinstated, with greater BMV potential provided across the wider site;

 The lower-level landform enables water to be manged effectively within the Site’s boundary;

 Provision of permissive walking routes and access that were not previously included;

 Enhanced phased restoration and review of existing ‘restored’ and self-set woodland areas to include for landscape and woodland management and enhancement; and

 Advanced hedgerow improvement works at the periphery of the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

4.4.3 The revised restoration proposals respond positively to local biodiversity strategies, retaining a number of habitats that are potentially important for invertebrates and birds (e.g. sand martins) that would otherwise have been lost upon restoration. Equally, the residual characteristics upon restoration will contribute a number of desirable elements, retaining and enriching the essential aspects of the landscape character area through inclusion of ‘High’ and ‘Medium’ priority habitats for the Landscape Character Types.

4.4.4 The potential provision of permissive public access responds positively to informative on the existing planning permissions for the Site (to consider the idea of the Stonnall Country Park), whilst potentially providing local access for residents which can benefit local health and educational agendas.

4.4.5 Whilst consented and fully controlled, the revised lower level restoration scheme also ensures that waste infill will be no closer or at a greater distance from the existing public water supply borehole at Sandhills compared to the consented situation (refer to Section 6.9). Additionally, upon restoration, more water would be managed within the Site compared to the consented restoration scheme which contributes to water management (floor risk) agendas.

4.4.6 Overall, the revised restoration proposals are considered sustainable and appropriate to the area, providing a number of enhancements and overall benefits compared to the existing consented restoration scheme that respond positively national and local planning policy in respect of restoration and need.

4.5 SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS

Housing Requirements

4.5.1 One of the greatest planning and socio-economic drivers for development across the UK is the need to meet housing demand. Nationally, Government aims to encourage the building of one million new homes between 2015 and 2020. The National Housing Federation believes around 245,000

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homes a year needs to be built. Equally, there is ever increasing demand for affordable housing.

4.5.2 A key constraint to the building of homes (and wider development) is the availability of building resources including primary and secondary aggregates. The economics of house building and the amount of affordable housing that can be provided further depends on the cost and accessibility to these resources.

4.5.3 Shire Oak Quarry is within Lichfield District, on its border with Walsall. Both areas are anticipated to see substantial housing growth.

4.5.4 The Lichfield District Local Plan Strategy 2008 – 2029 (adopted February 2015) states that:

“Lichfield District will make provision for the delivery of at least 10,030 new homes between 2008 and 2029.This equates to a local requirement of 478 dwellings per year. This will contribute to the requirement of 900 to 955 homes per year required for south east Staffordshire authorities as set out in the Housing Needs Study & SHMA.

In the five years to 1st April 2013 we have delivered 1,131 net new homes within the District at an average rate of 226 dwellings per year. In addition the District Council has identified sites within existing urban areas that could potentially deliver approximately 1,600 homes within the next 5 years and 1,400 homes thereafter, on a range of previously developed and previously undeveloped sites within settlement boundaries. This leaves around 5,900 homes left to identify new sites for”.

4.5.5 As can be seen, Lichfield District is suffering a shortfall in the rate of house builds and the supply of mineral is critical to supporting housing growth.

4.5.6 Within the Walsall Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment Update (May 2016) it is stated that for Walsall, “a total of 5,808 dwellings still need to be completed over the 10 year period 2016- 2026 to meet the minimum figure required by the BCCS [Black Country Core Strategy], whilst the trajectory below indicates a requirement for the next 5 years, 2016-2021, of 2,300 dwellings”. This is an average of c. 580 dwelling per annum over the next 10 years.

4.5.7 Birmingham is also in reasonably close proximity to the Site and, additionally, Birmingham as a Council area places significant demand for mineral on other quarries in southeast Staffordshire. The Birmingham Development Plan 2031, 5-year Housing Supply document (2015) states that Birmingham:

“is planning for increased levels of housing provision in challenging circumstances. Over recent years the difficult economic conditions have had a major impact on the house building industry which resulted in significant reductions in both housing starts and completions. At the same time household projections indicate that a much increased level of housing provision is required.”

4.5.8 The total housing requirement, from 2015 to 2031, is 44,550 dwellings, with dwellings delivered per annum required at a rate of between 2,500 and 2,850. The housing requirement for the period 2015-20 is 13,860 dwellings.

4.5.9 It is clear that both Walsall and in particular Birmingham (in the West Midlands Metropolitan Area) are projecting substantial housing growth in addition to other development.

4.5.10 The above only accounts for housing growth and does not account for wider supporting infrastructure, employment growth and mineral dependent construction activities.

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4.5.11 Overall, the level of housing provision indicates a large need for construction materials and resources in close proximity to the Site. The Proposed Development would support these housing developments by:

 Directly supplying aggregate products in to the West Midlands Metropolitan Area (in particular Walsall), noting that both Walsall and Birmingham have no significant sand and gravel reserves that are due to come forward during their respective plan period and that they are nett importer of minerals, particularly from Staffordshire (65% of mineral requirements are imported from Staffordshire across the metropolitan area);

 Directly supplying the market within Lichfield and/or helping to ensure that the landbank of mineral in Staffordshire is not unduly reduced by demand from neighbouring authorities by supplying in to those markets, noting that Lichfield District has a substantial amount of house building to complete to meet its objectively assessed housing need over the plan period.

4.5.12 Notwithstanding the level of nearby housing development requirements, there is also a number of large scale employment, commercial and industrial development being promoted, in addition to HS2 and major infrastructure proposals. These will also put pressure on mineral supplies and waste management facilities.

Local Enterprise Partnerships – Growth Priorities

4.5.13 Lichfield District forms part of two key Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs). These are the Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP and Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire LEPs. The core priorities for the LEPs are summarised below. Additionally, the Black Country LEP also falls immediately adjacent to the Site, covering areas in Walsall.

Greater Birmingham and Solihull (GBS) Strategic Economic Plan 2016 – 2030

4.5.14 The plan sets out an ambitious economic growth agenda and “is a partnership of business, public sector and further and higher education leaders with a mission to grow the economy of Greater Birmingham & Solihull (‘Greater Birmingham’)”.

4.5.15 The plan is jobs-focused, driven by an Industrial Strategy. The Mission “is to create jobs and grow the economy– and, in doing so, to raise the quality of life for all of those that live and work here”. The vision “is for Greater Birmingham to be a top global city region that drives the Midlands Engine and is the major driver of the UK economy outside London – harnessing our strengths and assets for the benefit of our area and the wider UK economy”. Objectives and targets are summarised below:

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Table 3 GBS Strategic Economic Plan – Objectives and Targets

Objectives Targets

. Increase business and workforce productivity . Create 250,000 jobs by 2030 and be the leading and competitiveness – particularly by raising Core City LEP for private sector job creation. skills levels and stimulating demand-led . Grow our economy by £29bn (GVA) by 2030 and be innovation. the leading Core City LEP for output per head. . Increase private sector investment, including . Increase the % of the working age population overseas investment. qualified to NVQ3+ to the national average by 2025. . Increase business survival and growth. . Increase our labour productivity (GVA per capita) to . Increase exports particularly amongst Small the national average by 2030. and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs). . Decrease our unemployment rate to the national . Enable more inclusive growth that delivers average by 2020 and have the lowest benefits more widely and reduces unemployment amongst the LEP Core Cities by unemployment – particularly in parts of 2030. Birmingham and North Solihull with high rates. . To be recognised as the leading Core City LEP for Quality of Life by 2030.

4.5.16 In terms of construction (housing building and employment land), the plan sets out some of what is required but also indicates the pressures that growth is placing on the LEP are in terms of meeting demand.

“Our Growth Deal stands to create some 7,000 new homes and 0.641 million square metres of commercial floor space by 2021, with the City Centre Enterprise Zone due to create a further 2,000,000 square metres of floor space by 2046. However, across the wider LEP area, there is growing pressure to meet demand for housing and employment land, particularly for strategic employment sites.

Supporting housing growth is crucial to sustaining the economic growth of Greater Birmingham. Major priorities for GBSLEP are to ensure that the rate of house building is significantly accelerated and that the homes that are built are of an appropriate mix of tenure and affordability to match the needs and ambitions of our communities….

In addition, land for employment sites, particularly strategic employment sites that can attract internationally mobile capital, is in short supply. Whilst Greater Birmingham has a healthy pipeline of sites for office development, the supply of land for large industrial units falls severely short: it is estimated that just 3 years of growth can be accommodated at present”.

Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Strategic Economic Plan (March 2014)

4.5.17 Shire Oak Quarry is located within a ‘Strategic Corridor’ on the northern edge of the West Midlands Metropolitan Area. It is close to key ‘Local Growth Areas’ including Cannock and Lichfield.

4.5.18 The plan identifies 3 ‘hall marks’ for the delivery of the economic growth Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire desire:

 A Core City - rapid, planned growth of the conurbation centred on the city of Stoke-on-Trent which would be a critical economic driver of the area spanning parts of Cheshire as well as Staffordshire, including through the development of a strong, competitive city centre brand offering the full mix of city centre uses.

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 Connected County: our vital corridors across the LEP area and out to wider national and international markets are vital to our patterns of trade, investment and work. Our plan puts great stake in creating “super connectivity” by securing strategic and local links which allow people, goods and ideas from within Stoke-On-Trent and Staffordshire to engage with new opportunities over our borders and across the globe, both physically and digitally. To do this we need a step change in the way we connect to neighbours, investors, customers and collaborators. The LEP will need to maximise the opportunities presented by strategic infrastructure investments, including High Speed 2 phase 2. In addition to securing improved strategic access to the City of Stoke-on-Trent we have a Growth Triangle made up from the M6/West Coast Main Line (WMCL) Spine, the A5/M6 Toll Enterprise Belt and A38/A50 Eastern Links. The routes carve out a set of development corridors which link our strategic employment sites, enable further rapid economic growth in these peri-urban areas and underpin our economic ties to the markets beyond our borders.

 Urban Growth: the future prosperity of the Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire economy will also be dependent on growth in Stoke-on-Trent and the chain of strategic centres at Stafford, Burton, Cannock, Lichfield, Tamworth and Newcastle-under-Lyme. Business and housing growth in and around these centres will underpin our economic progress. We also recognise that opportunities lie in the major conurbations across our border towards Manchester, Liverpool and Derby, and significantly to the South into Birmingham and the Black Country.

4.5.19 The plan focuses on five core objectives:

 Connected County: to build on our central location, excellent external connectivity and existing peri-urban sites to deliver the right blend of further employment sites and supporting infrastructure to drive business growth, encourage inward investment and meet our labour market needs.

 Competitive Urban Centres: to significantly enhance growth opportunities from an attractive and thriving city of Stoke-on-Trent city and other towns across Staffordshire where people are eager to live, work and enjoy themselves.

 Sector Growth: ensure globally competitive innovation, investment and enterprise–led expansion in large & small businesses across our priority sectors.

 Skilled Workforce: to develop a modern and flexible skills system which enables all people to up-skill and re-skill to meet the needs of our growth sectors. We will target growth and opportunity. As we boost the competiveness of our businesses, we are determined to ensure local people also benefit. While we reach for the heights of international competitiveness, we will tackle our pockets of poor educational performance, deprivation, decaying urban centres and unattractive housing.

4.5.20 Lichfield, Cannock and Tamworth are highlighted as ‘Strategic Centres’ for ‘urban growth’. They are located in an area where a network of quarries supplies market demand in both southeast Staffordshire and the West Midlands conurbation. Shire Oak forms one of these quarries and would be a key part of ensuring sufficient mineral resources and waste facilities are available in the area, to enable the growth agenda.

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“Our priority urban centres are Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stafford, Burton-on-Trent, Lichfield, Cannock and Tamworth. Future projections suggest there could be an additional 31,000 households in the Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire LEP area over the next ten years. We are eager that this growth is accommodated in attractive urban centres alongside Stoke-on Trent which are well-connected to employment opportunities. Our population is expected to increase by 5% over the next ten years, while among those aged 65 and over it will increase by 26%. Although these urban areas are thriving hubs of economic activity, we must sustain and evolve their offer to meet the changing needs of our growing population and to match our wider growth objectives for the LEP economy. They also act as service centres for a wider rural economy….

we have a number of other Strategic Centres where growth can be focussed and where competitiveness needs to be maintained. These include Stafford, Burton-on-Trent, Lichfield, Cannock and Tamworth”.

Black Country Strategic Economic Plan (March 2014)

4.5.21 Shire Oak Quarry also abuts the Black Country LEP area. This is also an area of ambitious growth and economic development:

“Our aim is to grow our global supply chain with the world class skills it demands, to maximise the benefits of our location, to exploit our industrial and geological heritage and to provide high quality housing to meet the needs of a balanced growing population. Our ground-breaking core strategy provides a pro-growth planning framework to deliver this vision.

By 2033 the Black Country will have increased the number of local jobs to 545,000 (+113,000 jobs) and strengthened our business base of 32,000 with an additional 1,500 new businesses each year. The Black Country will be home to 1.2 million residents with increased levels of graduates 231,000 people (+80,000) and accommodating an additional 47,000 new homes (from baseline 445,000)”.

4.5.22 The 30 year Vision outlines what the Black Country LEP aims to achieve by 2033:

 Become globally competitive with a significant number of leading manufacturing companies;

 Comprise a network of four thriving centres, each offering a distinct mix of shopping, leisure, cultural and commercial facilities;

 Maximise the benefit of its location at the centre of the transport network, ensuring modern, convenient and reliable connectivity both within the Black Country and connecting to key areas of economic growth;

 Have a high quality environment, including a canal network of which the area is proud and an urban park landscape including greenspace, community and heritage assets making it an attractive place to invest, live, work and visit;

 Become genuinely inclusive, with citizens who have a sense of belonging and who contribute to the wellbeing of the area;

 Provide high quality housing which can meet the needs of a balanced population; and

 Be ambitious and proud with effective partnership working between the private, public and voluntary sectors.

4.5.23 The plan has a broad growth strategy promoting manufacturing, industry, commercial, housing,

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infrastructure, leisure and education.

Summary

4.5.24 It is clear that there are a range of strategic economic plans that promote large scale job creation, business development and housing growth, covering towns and land in close proximity to Shire Oak Quarry. Lichfield District is part of two LEP areas and all the local LEPs aim to work together, improve connectivity and share a joint impetus for large scale economic growth in northern and northeastern areas of the West Midlands Conurbation, as well as in southeast Staffordshire.

4.5.25 Shire Oak Quarry forms an important strategic Site central to this area, whereby it offers sand and gravel mineral supply, secondary aggregate supply and waste management facilities. It forms one of a network of quarries in the wider area that will be under pressure to offer the construction material and waste management facilities to enable growth, construction and economic development.

4.5.26 The Proposed Development is needed in support of these growth strategies and further mineral release is justified in order to sustain the mineral landbank and ensure a network of quarries/waste facilities exist that can react to market demand and growth agendas. One of the key narratives of the LEP plans is that they often refer to ‘accelerating’ growth, especially in terms of housing and job creation.

4.5.27 Further to this, there are key connectivity and infrastructure improvements proposed that will further connect the area, with key major infrastructure affecting the area including HS2 and the M54/M6 northern link.

4.5.28 Shire Oak Quarry and the Proposed Development fully supports the growth agenda within the LEP areas and will:

 Safeguard mineral from sterilisation by releasing it to the key surrounding growth areas for construction and development; and

 Continue to provide key waste management facilities in support of construction and development through recycling and the production of secondary aggregate and the continuation of a landfill facility up to 2028 (for inert waste streams – predominantly construction and demolition materials).

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f 5 POLICY

5.1 GENERAL

5.1.1 This chapter provides an overview of the policy context within which the Proposed Development is justified.

5.1.2 Section 38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, requires decisions to be taken in accordance with the Development Plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The Development Plan consists of the following most relevant extant planning documents, according to their saved policies:

 Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan 1994 – 2006 (Adopted December 1999)

 Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Joint Waste Local Plan 2010 - 2026 (Adopted March 2013)

5.1.3 Additionally, the Minerals Local Plan is subject to review and the emerging Minerals Local Plan is currently subject to planning inquiry (with hearing sessions having been completed). The emerging Minerals Local Plan for Staffordshire (2015-2030), sets out the most up to date policy, but is not currently extant. However, based on the current inquiry process, the Plan is likely to become extant planning policy in early 2017 and would replace the 1999 Minerals Local Plan. As such, relevant policy is considered, which has been designed to accord with national policy.

5.1.4 Other local planning policy includes:

 The Lichfield District Local Plan Strategy 2008 – 2029 (Adopted February 2015);

 The Stonnall Neighbourhood Plan 2014 – 2029; and

 The Black Country Core Strategy and extant/emerging policy in Walsall.

5.1.5 Prior to assessing how the Proposed Development complies with the relevant Development Plan policy, it is necessary to review the proposal against national planning policy, which provides a national policy framework for Local Planning Authorities, developers and other relevant stakeholders.

5.2 NATIONAL POLICY

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)1

5.2.1 The current national planning policies for England, and direction as to how they should be applied, are set out in the National Planning Policy Framework 2012.

5.2.2 The NPPF states that “at the heart of the National Planning Policy Framework is a presumption in favour of sustainable development, which should be seen as a golden thread running through both plan-making and decision-taking.”

“For decision-taking this means:

 approving development proposals that accord with the development plan without delay; and

1 National Planning Policy Framework – DCLG, March 2012

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 where the development plan is absent, silent or relevant policies are out-of‑date, granting permission unless:

∙ any adverse impacts of doing so would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in this Framework taken as a whole; or

∙ specific policies in this Framework indicate development should be restricted.”

5.2.3 As will be outlined further, the Proposed Development is considered to accord with the Development Plan and the current planning documents present in Staffordshire.

5.2.4 The NPPF sets out twelve core planning principles which outline the policies under which Local Planning Authorities should develop Local Development Plan Documents and make decisions. In relation to the Proposed Development, these include:

 “proactively drive and support sustainable economic development to deliver the homes, business and industrial units, infrastructure and thriving local places that the country needs. Every effort should be made objectively to identify and then meet the housing, business and other development needs of an area, and respond positively to wider opportunities for growth….;

 always seek to secure high quality design and a good standard of amenity for all existing and future occupants of land and buildings;

 take account of the different roles and character of different areas, promoting the vitality of our main urban areas, protecting the Green Belts around them, recognising the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside and supporting thriving rural communities within it;

 support the transition to a low carbon future in a changing climate, taking full account of flood risk and coastal change, and encourage the reuse of existing resources, including conversion of existing buildings, and encourage the use of renewable resources (for example, by the development of renewable energy);

 contribute to conserving and enhancing the natural environment and reducing pollution. Allocations of land for development should prefer land of lesser environmental value, where consistent with other policies in this Framework;

 encourage the effective use of land by reusing land that has been previously developed (brownfield land), provided that it is not of high environmental value;

 promote mixed use developments, and encourage multiple benefits from the use of land in urban and rural areas, recognising that some open land can perform many functions (such as for wildlife, recreation, flood risk mitigation, carbon storage, or food production);

 conserve heritage assets in a manner appropriate to their significance, so that they can be enjoyed for their contribution to the quality of life of this and future generations;

 actively manage patterns of growth to make the fullest possible use of public transport, walking and cycling, and focus significant development in locations which are or can be made sustainable; and

 take account of and support local strategies to improve health, social and cultural wellbeing for all, and deliver sufficient community and cultural facilities and services to meet local needs.”

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5.2.5 These principles are taken forward in a number of policy areas aimed at delivering sustainable development including:

 Facilitating the sustainable use of minerals;

 Building a strong, competitive economy;

 Supporting a prosperous rural economy;

 Protecting Green Belt land; and

 Conserving and enhancing the natural environment.

5.2.6 The Proposed Development is considered to meet the requirements and principles of these individual policy areas.

Facilitating the sustainable use of minerals

5.2.7 At paragraph 142, the NPPF states that “Minerals are essential to support sustainable economic growth and our quality of life. It is therefore important that there is a sufficient supply of material to provide the infrastructure, buildings, energy and goods that the country needs. However, since minerals are a finite natural resource, and can only be worked where they are found, it is important to make best use of them to secure their long-term conservation”.

5.2.8 Local authorities should also adopt “appropriate policies in order that known locations of specific minerals resources of local and national importance are not needlessly sterilised by non-mineral development” and “encourage the prior extraction of minerals, where practicable and environmentally feasible, if it is necessary for non-mineral development to take place.”

5.2.9 Planning authorities should also “safeguard… existing, planned and potential sites for… the handling, processing and distribution of substitute, recycled and secondary aggregate material”.

5.2.10 At the same time, policy should “ensure worked land is reclaimed at the earliest opportunity, taking account of aviation safety, and that high quality restoration and aftercare of mineral sites takes place, including for agriculture (safeguarding the long term potential of best and most versatile agricultural land and conserving soil resources), geodiversity, biodiversity, native woodland, the historic environment and recreation”.

5.2.11 At paragraph 144, the NPPF states “When determining planning applications, local planning authorities should:

 give great weight to the benefits of the mineral extraction, including to the economy;… and

 provide for restoration and aftercare at the earliest opportunity to be carried out to high environmental standards”.

5.2.12 The NPPF also requires that authorities plan for the steady and adequate supply of aggregates, whilst also encouraging secondary aggregates. These policies are reinforced by Planning Practice Guidance.

Comment:

5.2.13 National policy is clear that known and locally important mineral resources should not be

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needlessly sterilised. It also recognises that mineral-worked land should be restored at the earliest opportunity to the highest possible environmental standards and sites should have a sustainable afteruse.

5.2.14 The Proposed Development sustainably maximises the mineral extraction at Shire Oak Quarry. Shire Oak Quarry and the adjacent mineral reserves are an important local resource, being the most proximate mineral facility to core growth areas of Walsall and the West Midlands Metropolitan Area. Ensuring as much marketable mineral is recovered at Shire Oak Quarry and from adjacent reserves, whilst not sterilising them through continued consented waste deposit, is a critical planning consideration.

5.2.15 Putting the Site in to restoration as consented, through the total infilling of the current void will sterilise the available mineral reserves east of the quarry, with no future extraction likely. Future mineral extraction, subsequent to restoration as currently consented, is unlikely to be commercially viable where no vehicle access to the mineral could be provided and extant processing equipment would be removed. The only viable extraction scenario is to process and export the adjacent mineral reserves via the existing extant infrastructure.

5.2.16 The Proposed Development recognises that restoring the Site as early as possible is also an important planning consideration. The length of time required to restore the Proposed Development equates to an addition 5 year period beyond existing consented timescales, i.e. restoration by the end of 2028 instead of 2023. This is not unreasonable, given the level of mineral that can be released from the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

5.2.17 Additionally, the timescales have been curtailed via a revised lower level restoration scheme, which does not rely on total infill of the Site. The total volume of material required for deposit will be unchanged from the existing consented situation, just occurring over a larger area and longer timescale.

5.2.18 The revised restoration scheme allow for a number of restoration enhancements and benefits, which are outlined at Section 4.4. Overall, there will be an increase in habitat diversity (particularly through the retention of geological escarpments) whilst allowing for a multi-functional long term sustainable afteruse. This accords with national policy in returning worked Sites to high environmental standards and a high quality restoration for agriculture and nature conservation.

5.2.19 In accordance with national policy, the planning authority should also give all due weight to maintaining local supply. As the most proximate quarry in Staffordshire to Walsall and the West Midlands conurbation, the local authority should proactively protect the mineral resources and adjacent to Shire Oak Quarry to supply local markets, with high growth and construction agendas (see Section 3.9.3 (Need)).

5.2.20 In general, Shire Oak Quarry will maintain local supply, help maintain the landbank in Staffordshire and help to balance existing and increased mineral demand in the early part of the Staffordshire Minerals Local Plan period (in proximity to Walsall), whilst not prejudicing mineral production elsewhere. Shire Oak Quarry is considered a key strategic site, in addition to wider mineral supply, in terms of supporting economic growth and priorities in the West Midlands Metropolitan Area, Staffordshire and wider infrastructure projects.

5.2.21 Additionally, the Proposed Development also extends the life of existing consented recycling facilities, ensuring economically valuable secondary aggregates can be manufactured, whilst also

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facilitating the production of suitable soils and restoration material to achieve restoration (as consented).

Building a strong, competitive economy

5.2.22 Paragraph 20 of the NPPF states that “To help achieve economic growth, local planning authorities should plan proactively to meet the development needs of business and support an economy fit for the 21st century”. Supporting economic growth and development should be given “significant weight” in the planning system.

5.2.23 Economic growth and development can only be facilitated where there is a readily available supply of aggregates. As stated above, Shire Oak Quarry will help sustain mineral supply in southeast Staffordshire and the West Midlands Metropolitan Area where there is high demand for aggregate.

5.2.24 Therefore, the maintaining of mineral supplies from Shire Oak Quarry should be afforded “significant weight” in the decision making process, whereby the proposed timeframes, extraction volumes and infill requirements are considered an economically viable and sustainable solution to maintaining mineral supplies, avoiding mineral sterilisation and achieving a high quality restoration by the end of 2028.

Supporting a prosperous rural economy

5.2.25 Section 3 of the NPPF requires that “Planning policies should support economic growth in rural areas in order to create jobs and prosperity by taking a positive approach to sustainable new development. To promote a strong rural economy, local and neighbourhood plans should:

 support the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business and enterprise in rural areas, both through conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings;

 promote the development and diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses;

 support sustainable rural tourism and leisure developments that benefit businesses in rural areas, communities and visitors, and which respect the character of the countryside. This should include supporting the provision and expansion of tourist and visitor facilities in appropriate locations where identified needs are not met by existing facilities in rural service centres; and

 promote the retention and development of local services and community facilities in villages, such as local shops, meeting places, sports venues, cultural buildings, public houses and places of worship.

5.2.26 The Operator is a significant local employer in Staffordshire and existing quarry staff will be retained in employment throughout the operational life of the development.

5.2.27 The Proposed Development has also taken the opportunity to ensure that the restoration of the Site maximises the viability of the Site for productive and sustainable agriculture (an important rural activity), whilst also providing substantial areas of nature conservation interest. The restoration proposals for the Site aim to ensure there is a long-term economically viable agricultural after-use for the Site as well as potentially providing recreational opportunities in the future, through potential for permissive access that would be promoted for benefit to the local

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community. The proposals are considered to comply with national policy.

Protecting Green Belt land and Conserving and enhancing the natural environment

5.2.28 It is recognised that the Site falls within the Green Belt; the NPPF reiterates that minerals developments are not necessarily inappropriate in the Green Belt. Shire Oak Quarry is a long standing quarry in operation for over 60 years. Paragraph 81 of the NPPF states that “local planning authorities should plan positively to enhance the beneficial use of the Green Belt, such as looking for opportunities to provide access; to provide opportunities for outdoor sport and recreation; to retain and enhance landscapes, visual amenity and biodiversity; or to improve damaged and derelict land.”

5.2.29 The restoration proposals seek to address many of these opportunities. The Proposed Development does not propose any additional permanent built infrastructure and do conflict with the purposes of the Green Belt. The extension of Shire Oak Quarry will not unduly affect the openness of the Green Belt over and above the current situation, with existing infrastructure retained for an additional 5 years. The Proposed Development has been designed to facilitate the restoration of the Site and enhance the natural environment in accordance with Section 11 of the NPPF. As such, the proposals are considered to progressively and positively enhance the Green Belt.

5.2.30 Noting that the quarry is already located in the Green Belt, given the benefits of the Proposed Development in terms of maintaining mineral supply (in support of economic growth) and preventing mineral sterilisation, in conjunction with the wider restoration benefits in terms of ‘conserving and enhancing the natural environment’, it is considered that the proposals are not inappropriate in the Green Belt. This has been stated in previous planning committee reports in relation to planning consent L.13/13/809MW (the Quarry Permission) that stated:

“the proposals are not inappropriate in Green Belt policy terms as they do preserve the openness of the Green Belt and do not conflict with the purposes of including land in Green Belt, for the following reasons:

 Minerals can only be worked where they occur;

 The limited scale, duration and temporary nature of the mineral operations;

 The site would be restored to an appropriate landform and afteruse and would enhance the prevalent landscape of the area;

 Controls can be imposed by planning conditions to minimise visual impact and require the site to be well restored which will help to achieve high environmental standards”.

5.2.31 Further details on the environmental considerations are contained in Section 0 and within the ES. Overall, no significant or environmental impacts from the Proposed Development are predicted that would be a constraint to development, with benefits upon restoration.

National Planning Policy for Waste (2014)

5.2.32 National waste planning policy is covered separately by the National Planning Policy for Waste (October 2014). In addition to being a quarry, Shire Oak Quarry has a long history of landfill operations and additional waste recycling operations. Overall, these operations will continue as consented.

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5.2.33 National waste policy advocates the Waste Hierarchy (see Diagram 1). This advocates that as much waste as possible should be diverted away from disposal towards recovery and re-use.

Diagram 1 The Waste Hierarchy

5.2.34 Overall, the Proposed Development is considered to comply with the National Planning Policy for Waste by:

 The continuation of extant waste recycling operations (to 2028), which deliver a range of secondary aggregate products (whilst also maximising the available mineral resource) and also provides for the manufacture of soils and soil forming material to facilitate restoration. This helps to push waste up the hierarchy.

 The Site will continue to import for deposit inert waste material only. This is to facilitate an appropriate restoration scheme, which can also be considered recovery. The principle of development has been to ensure no nett increase in void space. As such, the same level of fill as currently required to achieve the consented restoration scheme will be required for the revised restoration and lower level landform.

5.2.35 As such, despite the proposed extraction, the level of void (to be facilitated by imported material for deposit) is not proposed to be increased and in conjunction with the recycling operations, the Proposed Development is considered to accord with the principles of national waste policy.

5.3 STAFFORDSHIRE AND STOKE-ON-TRENT MINERALS LOCAL PLAN 1994-2006

5.3.1 Many of the policies of the Minerals Local Plan were not saved, being replaced by Structure Plan and Regional Plan policies which have since been revoked. In particular, there are few saved policies specifically relevant to the proposals with regards to sand and gravel extraction from Chapter 8 of the Minerals Local Plan. Where policy is absent from the local plan, the NPPF and other national policy should take precedence. There are a number of relevant saved policies as outlined below.

5.3.2 Overall, the Minerals Local Plan does not support sterilising mineral. Paragraph 3.15 states “because of the limited availability of certain minerals and difficulties in bringing forward sites which can be worked in an environmentally acceptable manner, it is important to ensure that minerals are not needlessly sterilised”. The Site falls within a ‘Minerals Safeguarding Area for Sand

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and Gravel’ and should the extant restoration be completed (or infilling progress beyond existing operational extents), a substantial mineral resource east of Shire Oak Quarry would be sterilised contrary to policy. Shire Oak Quarry is a long standing quarry site where existing planning and environmental conditions are sound and can be extended to the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

Plate 4 Policy 9

5.3.3 The Proposed Development includes for phased restoration, to progressively bring an increasing proportion of the Site in to a beneficial afteruse, with restoration and infilling of the Existing Quarry Area occurring concurrent to mineral working in the Proposed Eastern Extension. Additionally, advance planting works will be undertaken in the Proposed Eastern Extension area including the provision of c. 1.1 ha of new woodland.

5.3.4 Regular monitoring of progress in terms of the phased restoration and extraction operations can be undertaken, to ensure the proposed restoration end date can be achieved.

5.3.5 The Revised Restoration proposals amend the approved restoration scheme, by ensuring a lower level landform can be provided that will not increase the void (import for deposit) requirements for restoration beyond the current situation. In turn, the proposals allow for restoration of BMV agricultural land as well as a more diverse range of habitats compared to the approved restoration scheme. Nature conservation interests have also been included across extensive areas of the Site. Overall, the Revised Restoration Scheme is deemed appropriate to the Site, providing a long-term sustainable afteruse and management, with enhanced landscape and nature conservation

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opportunities and potential recreation opportunities, within this area of Green Belt.

5.3.6 The restoration proposals have been informed by various assessments laid out in the ES, including landscape and ecological considerations. Overall, the Proposed Development is considered to comply with Policy 9.

Plate 5 Policy 12

5.3.7 A range of environmental considerations have been accounted for as part of the Proposed Development. The Proposed Eastern Extension does not unduly encroach towards Stonnall Village, meaning that that nearest sensitive receptors to the Site remains those pre-existing this planning application, i.e. those long Lichfield Road and Chester Road.

5.3.8 Shire Oak Quarry is a longstanding quarry, whereby there are strong planning and permitting controls applied to the Site. The intention has been to retain existing planning controls wherever practical, particularly in respect of nearby sensitive properties. This includes the retention of noise controls, dust controls and water table controls as conditioned on the Quarry Permission.

5.3.9 The EIA process has found that these conditions can generally be readily applied to the Proposed Eastern Extension, with few changes to the baseline controls. Traffic will be below or in line with extant historic levels that are consented for the Site. There are no proposed changes to approved processing locations and access points.

5.3.10 A range of environmental considerations have been accounted for in the ES, whereby no significant environmental impacts have been assessed over and above the existing consented situation.

5.3.11 It is considered that the proposals will not lead to any significant increase in dust, noise or other amenity issues over and above the existing situation. Given the existing planning controls and the best practice measures employed at the quarry, the proposals are considered acceptable in relation to Policy 12.

5.3.12 The Site does not fall within or adjacent to sites nationally or locally designated for nature conservation and cultural heritage purposes. The proposals are not considered to affect any such designations further afield. The restoration of the Site will lead to substantial habitat and landscape improvements over and above the existing situation. The proposals are considered to comply with MLP Policy 19 and 20.

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Plate 6 Policy 21

5.3.13 The Proposed Development has been subject to a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (Chapter 7 of the ES) that has informed mitigation and restoration proposals. No significant landscape or visual effects have been assessed, with the majority of the proposals screened from view.

5.3.14 The Revised Restoration scheme responds positively to the surrounding landscape, whilst incorporating a number of distinctive habitats that are appropriate to the landscape and in keeping with the landscape character of the areas. Overall, a mosaic of habitats and appropriate landform will be restored, sustaining a multi-functional agricultural and nature conservation/amenity landuses. Overall, the Proposed Development is considered to accord with Policy 21.

5.3.15 The current access arrangements and extant historic vehicle movements, both of which will be unchanged by the Proposed Development, are considered to accord with MLP Policies 30 and 31.

5.3.16 The Proposed Development (including the proposed revised restoration scheme) has been designed to comply with the Code of Practice for minerals developments as pert the Minerals Local Plan, in particular the principles at laid out in Appendix 5 paragraphs 83 and 84. Wherever achievable, the landform will have a maximum slope gradient of 1 in 4, with steeper slopes retained for geological and nature conservation purposes. Overall, the landform seeks to create a landform where slopes at 1 in 4 and steeper, form a minority of the Site and as much of the land as possible is at an

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average gradient of 1 in 8, being much more viable for agriculture.

5.3.17 The restoration landform and restoration soils will be created using in situ materials, stockpiled stripped soils, overburden and manufacturing of restoration soils using imported restoration material blended with indigenous materials. This is in accordance with the Code of Practice, whilst also ensuring conservation if indigenous soil resource (in the Proposed Eastern Extension area) and providing sufficiency of material to achieve restoration. .

5.3.18 Overall, the Proposed Development is considered to accord with the policies and guidance contained in the Minerals Local Plan.

5.4 STAFFORDSHIRE AND STOKE-ON-TRENT JOINT WASTE LOCAL PLAN 2010-2026

5.4.1 The adopted Waste Local Plan sets out waste policy for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.

5.4.2 The Vision “By 2026 the people and businesses of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent will be actively minimising waste and regarding waste as a resource. To support this, 'our waste infrastructure' will comprise a network of existing, enhanced and new sustainable waste management facilities that are in the right place to contribute to the local economy, and to minimise and/or mitigate any impacts on climate change, people, transportation systems, and the built, natural, historic and water environment. More specifically 'our waste infrastructure' will:

 Have the capacity to manage an amount of waste at least equivalent to the amount we generate. This capacity will be higher up the “waste hierarchy” so that we can minimise our reliance on and use of landfill. In order to maintain this capacity, we will have used our planning powers where necessary to try to protect our waste infrastructure from constraints that may be imposed by non-waste related development in the vicinity;

 Be located close to the main urban areas, as far as practicable, to minimize the impacts of transporting waste and recycled materials; and

 Meet modern design standards and, wherever practicable and environmentally acceptable, be located within buildings or enclosed structures appropriate to the tech technology or process, on general industrial or previously developed land”.

5.4.3 The location of the Proposed Development, being located in close proximity to a main urban area will ensure that the impacts of transporting waste and recycled materials are minimised on local communities and transport networks.

5.4.4 Policy 1.1 General Principles – “Planning permission for the development of new sustainable waste management facilities will be granted where the applicant can demonstrate that the proposal accords with the principles listed below:

i. Waste is minimised;

ii. Waste is used as a resource, including the formation of waste synergies, for example through the creation of resource recovery parks;

iii. The proposals represent the most sustainable option for management of waste as high up the “waste hierarchy” as feasible (Refer to Appendix 4: The Waste Hierarchy);

iv. Protection of human health and the environment.

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v. Unacceptable adverse impacts, including cumulative effects, should be avoided and adverse impacts minimised and mitigated as part of the proposals;

vi. The overall (economic, social and environmental) benefits outweigh any material planning objections”.

5.4.5 Policy 1.3: Construction, demolition and excavation waste, states that “Recycling of construction, demolition & excavation waste and the diversion of inert waste to quarries requiring backfill for restoration purposes will be favoured over new inert landfill / landraising proposals”.

Comment

5.4.6 The Proposed Development will ensure that waste is minimised through the recycling of materials to create a secondary aggregate. In addition the existing operation of the Site, the additional supporting information demonstrates that there will be no unacceptable adverse impacts, including cumulative effects, with adverse impacts minimised and mitigated as part of the proposals. The Proposed Development accords with Policy 1.1 and 1.3.

5.4.7 Additionally, the use of inert material in the manufacture of soils and soil-forming materials for restoration is a sustainable solution to sourcing/providing sufficient material to restore the Site. The restoration allows for provision of agricultural land and a range of other habitats. This established operation complies with Policy 1.4 (use of waste for landscaping, screening, engineering purposes or for improvement of agricultural or forestry land).

5.4.8 Shire Oak Quarry is an established landfill site, with the Proposed Development limiting the infill for deposit requirement to the current infill requirements. As such, there is no proposed net increase in import for deposit; the same volume of material will be spread over a larger area and timeframe. As such further consideration of Policy 1.6 (Landfill and landraise) is not required in terms of the provision of new landfill void capacity.

5.4.9 Further to this, the proposals also comply with Policy 3.1 (General requirements for new and enhanced facilities). All future void areas will be lined in accordance with modern landfill regulations and EA guidance, with phased progressive restoration proportionate to the nature of this application. The proposals complement existing on-Site operations, whilst facilitating further mineral release. This application proposes to consolidate all permissions in to a single planning consent for added clarity.

5.4.10 In accordance with Policy 3.3 (Exceptions criteria for facilities recycling construction, demolition & excavation waste or comparable industrial wastes) the recycling operations form a temporary facility using existing consented plant “where this allows for secondary and recycled materials to be processed or blended with newly extracted material from the site to achieve a higher quality end use”, as well as facilitating the manufacture of restoration materials and soils.

5.4.11 The Proposed Development is considered to be Sustainable Development. A full range of environmental considerations have been assessed in the ES and the proposals are not considered to give rise to any unacceptable environmental impacts, in accordance with Policy 4.2, Protection of Environmental Quality.

5.4.12 Overall, the Proposed Development is considered to accord with the policies of Waste Local Plan, by not increase landfill void requirements (import for deposit) and the continuation of recycling operations in support of restoration and the production of secondary aggregates.

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5.5 THE NEW MINERALS LOCAL PLAN FOR STAFFORDSHIRE (2015-2030)

5.5.1 This forms the most up-to-date mineral policy direction for Staffordshire, but remains emerging policy until adopted by Council. However, it is anticipated that it will form a principal document against which the Proposed Development will be tested, especially as it is likely the Plan will be adopted early 2017.

5.5.2 The Vision for the Plan is that:

“By 2030 Staffordshire will be producing minerals to support sustainable economic development from sites that are:

 located where their impact on local communities and the environment has been minimised or mitigated;

 operating to high environmental standards; and,

 later restored and subject to aftercare to enhance local amenity and the environment”.

5.5.3 Strategic Objective 1 – the provision of minerals to support sustainable economic development requires that:

“To support sustainable economic development, the provision of minerals will:

 aim to achieve an acceptable balance between the steady and adequate supply of minerals and the impact of mineral operations on local communities and the environment;

 so far as is practicable, take account of the contribution that substitute or secondary and recycled material can make as an alternative to primary minerals; and

 ensure that important economic mineral resources are not needlessly sterilised.”

5.5.4 Given that the Proposed Development will prevent needless sterilisation of mineral adjacent to Shire Oak Quarry (which would otherwise be entirely landfilled preventing mineral extraction), the Site is a key secondary aggregate provider (which also maximises mineral reserves and manufactures restoration material) and that the Site is a key local provider of mineral in the locality (maintaining the adequate supply of mineral), the Proposed Development is considered to be in full accordance with Strategic Objective 1.

5.5.5 The longstanding operations at the Site have co-existed alongside the local community for many years with minimal conflict. Extant planning Conditions and controls can be effectively replicated to control operations in the Proposed Eastern Extension area, to protect local amenity at sensitive receptors. As such, the Proposed Development accords with Strategic Objectives 1 and 2 and will not have unacceptable impacts on the local community. The existing planning controls set a precedent for operating the Site to high environmental standards with various improvements, particularly in terms of restoration, proposed in accordance with Strategic Objective 3.

5.5.6 In terms of restoration, this will be achieved up to 5 years later than currently consented, to an improved quality with a more diverse range of habitats whilst allowing for BMV agricultural land. The restoration proposals allow for better on site water management (not increasing flood risk) and respond positively to the local landscape and wide plan strategies for the locality. The restoration proposals can be regularly reviewed and enhancements to previously ‘restored’ areas are proposed. The Proposed Development accords with Strategic Objective 4.

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5.5.7 The provision of sand and gravel quarries will be covered by Policy 1 – Provision for Sand and Gravel. Policy 1.1 will require that:

“To ensure that there is a steady and adequate supply of sand and gravel during the Plan period, provision will be made to maintain at least a 7 year landbank of permitted reserves based on production capacity of 5.0 million tonnes of sand and gravel per annum”.

5.5.8 This is to be provided for by a range of allocated sites and potentially areas of search. Shire Oak Quarry was proposed for allocation, but a strategic decision was made not to allocate the Site at this time. Various commentary on the engagement in the Minerals Local Plan process is provided at Section 7.1. Moreover, the Proposed Development comprises a quarry extension which accords with the wider plan strategy that mineral supply should be sustained by extensions to existing quarry sites rather than a new quarry site. Overall, the Proposed Development allows for quick mineral release in supporting the 5 million tonne annual production target, which should be considered a minimum target.

5.5.9 Importantly, it has been recognised by Staffordshire County Council during the inquiry process that from Shire Oak Quarry, “potentially additional reserves could be released on the basis of achieving benefits to existing restoration proposals and minimising the amount of backfilling required. Such proposals could be considered under policy 1.6”.

5.5.10 Policy 1.6 (proposed for any other sand and gravel site (extension/new sites)) requires that:

“Proposals for any other sand and gravel sites (extensions / new sites) will only be supported where it has been demonstrated that:

a) the permitted reserves, the allocated extensions to existing sites listed above or mineral resources from within the area of search would not meet the required level of provision stated in paragraph 1.1; OR,

b) the proposals would secure significant material planning benefits that outweigh any material planning objections”.

5.5.11 In respect of Policy 1.6a, the release of further mineral at Shire Oak Quarry is about contributing to mineral provision and sustaining local supply, with the Site noted as being proximate to the local market. Primary aggregate reserves are near exhausted at Shire Oak Quarry. This is around 2 years ahead of schedule, with consented extraction permitted until the end of 2019. This has been due to increasing demand (in support of the local market) for mineral from Shire Oak Quarry (refer Section 4.2). The supply that would otherwise have been met by Shire Oak Quarry up to 2019, without further mineral release, will have to be met by other quarries, noting that the demand is increasing.

5.5.12 It is further noted that the 5 million tonnes per annum sand and gravel production is a minimum target, for the whole of Staffordshire. Southeast Staffordshire is in close proximity to the West Midlands Metropolitan Area, which is a nett importer of mineral (65% of above - see Section 4.2). As such, localised demand in this area is elevated and more prone to increases due to economic development in the West Midlands Metropolitan Area and nearby Lichfield etc.

5.5.13 The additional annual sand and gravel release from Shire Oak Quarry is around 5% of the annual target. This is not considered a significant proportion, particularly in respect of the fact that the release is related to current market demand at the Site and is not considered to prejudice other consented or allocated Sites. The Proposed Development seeks to sustain the current mineral

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demand from Shire Oak Quarry, and not cater for unfulfilled mineral demand elsewhere. Conversely, without additional mineral release at Shire Oak Quarry, unmet demand would need to be met by other quarries that will put additional pressure on the landbank and annual production and may accelerate mineral release requirements elsewhere.

5.5.14 The Minerals Product Association, Walsall Council and Birmingham Council have all presented evidence that increasing demand in the West Midlands Metropolitan Area will require additional mineral release in excess of 5 million tonnes per annum. As the West Midlands Metropolitan Area cannot (due to limited supplies and environmental constraints), and does not, plan to be self- sufficient in terms of mineral supply, this will have to be fulfilled by other quarries.

5.5.15 Staffordshire County Council has previously highlighted that there should be ‘significant material planning benefits that outweigh any material planning objection’ to the Shire Oak Quarry proposals in accordance with Policy 1.6b.

5.5.16 It is considered, that there are a series of significant or material planning benefits to the Proposed Development, both in terms of operations and restoration (see Section 3.9.3). These include:

 The prevention of mineral sterilisation from ongoing consented landfill operations. The remaining known reserves east of Shire Oak Quarry can be released in a sustainable and timely manner. The reserves would otherwise be lost. This is in full accordance with national and local policy;

 The proposals comprise a quarry extension rather than a new quarry proposal. This fits with the wider local plan strategy whereby the operations are a known quantity in planning terms and pre-existing effective planning Conditions can be applied to the larger quarry site;

 Recycling operations will continue for an additional 5 years, helping to move waste up the waste hierarchy and produce valuable secondary aggregates. The operations also allow for the manufacture of soils and restoration materials that would otherwise have to be imported. These are sustainable proposals that meet national and local policy objectives;

 The combination of mineral extraction and recycling operations maximises the available mineral reserve by enabling normally non saleable material to be blended with imported material to produce restoration material and secondary aggregates;

 In accordance with previous planning advice, the nett void requiring import will not increase between the consented and the revised restoration scheme. The importation requirements to achieve the proposed revised restoration landform have been modelled to be consistent with the consented situation. This again will encourage positive waste management by not increasing the landfill void capacity, but rather elongating the existing capacity over a slightly longer time period. This may encourage further recycling, reuse and waste minimisation;

 The Proposed Development will continue to serve Construction and Demolition projects (and other inert waste generators) from its most proximate local ‘waste’ market – the West Midlands Metropolitan Area. Shire Oak Quarry is considered sustainable development in the sense it offers a full range of services to promote local economic development, from mineral supply to inert waste handling;

 The proximity of Shire Oak Quarry to local markets (as well as the existing local highways network) is positive in terms of climate change agendas. Both in terms of imports and exports, journey times and associated exhaust emissions are much reduced from Shire Oak

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Quarry in to the West Midlands Metropolitan Area compared to other quarries in southeast Staffordshire. This also supports the concept of reducing ‘mineral miles’;

 The revised lower level landform also offers greater control of surface water within the confines of the Site boundary, compared to higher level restorations. This fits will local and national water management and flood resilience strategies;

 The Proposed Development intends for inert waste infilling to be undertaken at greater distance from the waster abstraction borehole at Sandhills (Groundwater Source Protection Zone) compared to the existing consented situation (refer Section 6.9);

 The proposed restoration allows for a range of restoration enhancements over the consented scheme. These particularly include the provision of geological exposures and retention of quarry cliffs that would have otherwise been lost to landfilling. There would also be greater diversity in habitat, as well as a series of woodland management schemes undertaken to improve existing relatively poor quality woodland areas. This in turn will be of benefit to wildlife and improve landscape character;

 The proposed restoration allows for a sustainable mixed use restoration scheme that also has potential for the increased provision of Best and Most Versatile Agricultural Land, compared the existing consented situation, whilst also providing a significant balance of land for nature conservation;

 Allowance has been made on the revised restoration scheme for permissive public access. This responds positively to the information note on planning permission L.13/13/809MW that consideration should be given to the idea of Stonnall Country Park. Whilst Shire Oak Quarry is not proposed to be a ‘Country Park’, it has the potential to provide a local recreational resource (for local residents) in terms of walking, access to nature and rural land with views over the wider countryside; and

 The Proposed Development will consolidate all planning permissions for Shire Oak Quarry in to a single planning permission adding greater clarity and ease of reference.

5.5.17 These summarise what are considered the ‘significant material planning benefits’ of the Proposed Development. The Site is well controlled by planning and environmental permitting conditions/controls, which can be readily replicated and generally are considered, fit for purpose. The overall findings of the EIA process and other studies has been that there are no significant changes in terms of environmental/amenity effects over and above the existing consented situation and no environmental consideration, either individually or in conjunction with others, would be a constraint to development. Given the situation, no material planning objections are considered likely or warranted and the Proposed Development is supported and justified under Policy 1.6.

5.5.18 The safeguarding of mineral resources adjacent to Shire Oak Quarry, as well as extending the life of recycling operations are considered positive and should be supported under Policy 3 (Safeguarding Minerals of Local and National Importance and Important Infrastructure). The policy states that Sand and Gravel “will be safeguarded against needless sterilisation by non-mineral development”. There is no need to sterilise the mineral reserves east of Shire Oak Quarry by continued consented landfilling and as such the Proposed Development should be supported. The policy also supports prior extraction of mineral. In this case, mineral can be extracted prior to achieving restoration. Mineral infrastructure sites used for mineral processing, handling and transportation are also protected against non-mineral development. Whilst the processing and recycling infrastructure is

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temporary in nature, it is considered beneficial to retain the infrastructure until 2028.

5.5.19 The Proposed Development has been subject to a full EIA process and no residual significant or unacceptable constraint to development has been assessed. Indeed existing environmental controls (planning Conditions) can be effectively extended to the Proposed Eastern Extension area. Given the restoration benefits and high environmental standards of working, the Proposed Development is considered to fully comply with Policy 4 (Minimising the impact of mineral development).

5.5.20 The revised restoration scheme responds positively to Policy 6 (Restoration of Mineral Sites), with phased working, enhancement of existing habitats, a more diverse range of restored habitats, retention of quarry faces, water management and safeguarding and restoration of agricultural land. The revised restoration scheme is considered to have positive beneficial effects in respect of local landscape character and nature conservation, particularly through improve habitat connectivity. Overall, the proposals are in accordance and are supported under Policy 6 (also refer to Section 4.4).

5.5.21 Overall, the Proposed Development is considered to accord with the emerging Minerals Local Plan for Staffordshire and should be supported under the various policies.

5.6 THE LICHFIELD DISTRICT LOCAL PLAN STRATEGY 2008 - 2029

5.6.1 The Saved policies of the Lichfield Local Plan Strategy 2012 are the current local plan polices for the Site.

5.6.2 Core Policy 2: Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development.

“When considering development proposals the Council will take a positive approach that reflects the presumption in favour of sustainable development contained in the National Planning Policy Framework. It will always work pro-actively with applicants jointly to find solutions which mean that proposals can be approved wherever possible, and to secure development that improves the economic, social and environmental conditions in the area.

Planning applications that accord with the policies in this Local Plan (and, where relevant, with policies in neighbourhood plans) will be approved without delay, unless material considerations indicate otherwise”.

5.6.3 It is considered that the Proposed Development complies with National and local planning policies and Government guidelines. Given the material planning benefits of the proposals and the absence of unacceptable environmental impacts, the proposals are considered to be Sustainable Development and should be supported under Core Policy 2. The sustainability considerations are outlined in Core Policy 3 (Delivering Sustainable Development) and as outlined above, the proposals respond positively in respect of sustainability impacts. Key aspects which are outlined in the policy, that the Proposed Development supports, includes protecting the amenity of local residents, safeguarding local jobs, enhancing the character of the area through restoration, assisting in the regeneration and evolution of towns (through the supply of construction materials), prudent use of natural resources and maximizing the opportunities to protect and enhance biodiversity, geodiversity (through retention of quarry faces) and green infrastructure.

5.6.4 Core Policy 7 (Employment & Economic Development) seeks to create between 7,310 and 9,000 additional jobs over the plan period with 79.1ha of land allocated for employment use. Economic

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development relies on construction which relies on construction material and waste management provision. The Proposed Development will directly support this, in conjunction with other local facilities and should be supported under the policy.

5.6.5 The provision of walking routes and recreational potential, that can be achieved upon restoration, is supported by Core Policy 10 (Healthy and Safe Lifestyles) and 11 (Participation in Sport & Physical Activity). Air quality will be protected throughout the operational period and no unacceptable effects are predicted.

5.6.6 The restoration proposals respond positively to Core Policy 13 (Natural Resources) in terms of countryside improvement, access, landscape and ecological improvements. Improve agricultural opportunities are also promoted under Policy NR1 (Countryside Management), which seeks to diversify and allow for mixed use rural enterprises.

5.6.7 Shire Oak Quarry is located within the Green Belt. In accordance with Policy NR2 (Development in the Green Belt) there are strong planning arguments in favour of development that would not be detrimental to Green Belt purposes as outlined above at paragraph 5.2.30. The restoration scheme responds positively to Policy NR3 (Biodiversity, Protected Species and their Habitats) in particular the requirement that development:

 Protects, enhances, restores and implements appropriate conservation management of the biodiversity and/or geodiversity value of the land and buildings;

 Minimises fragmentation and maximise opportunities for restoration, enhancements and connection of natural habitats (including links to habitats outside Lichfield District);

 Incorporates beneficial biodiversity and/or geodiversity conservation features, including features that will help wildlife to adapt to climate change where appropriate; and

 Delivers a net gain for biodiversity and /or geodiversity in the district.

5.6.8 Overall, the Proposed Development is robust and is supported by a full EIA process and Environmental Statement. No unacceptable planning or environmental effects have been assessed and the proposals make a positive contribution in supporting the local planning policy context.

5.7 STONNALL NEIGHBOUHOOD PLAN 2014 – 2029

5.7.1 Shire Oak Quarry falls within the Stonnall Neighbourhood Area. The Proposed Development will be some 250m from Stonnall Village at its closest point and remains in the rural countryside area. Many of the policies contained in the neighbourhood plan are targeted at positive planning controls in terms appropriate development within the settlement limits. However, the wider environs are also considered under Chapter 12.

5.7.2 The revised restoration scheme offers many advantages over and above the approved restoration scheme. In particular, the restoration and landscape mitigation proposals should be supported under policies LE2 and LE4 that state:

“Projects and developments which increase wildlife habitats and species in accordance with the Staffordshire Biodiversity Action Plan and Lichfield District’s Biodiversity Action Plan will be supported”.

“Development proposals will be required to include the provision of new landscaping and green

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infrastructure appropriate to the setting and size of development. Development should be sympathetic to the landscape character and quality of the Neighbourhood Area with due reference and consideration made to the Staffordshire Landscape Character Assessment”.

5.7.3 The Proposed Development responds positively to the neighbourhood plan policies. The application is supported by an Environmental Statement which has found no unacceptable environmental impacts over and above the existing consented situation. The proposals have proactively sought to protect the amenity of Stonnall Village and retain sufficient distance to the settlement limits.

5.7.4 Also the provision of permissive walking access within the Site can also be of local benefit and would potentially make a contribution under Policy T2: “Improvements to facilitate the use of cycling or walking to access facilities and services will be encouraged”.

5.7.5 Overall the Proposed Development is not considered to conflict with the Stonnall Neighbourhood Plan.

5.8 BLACK COUNTRY CORE STRATEGY AND WALSALL PLANNING POLICY

5.8.1 Whilst the Proposed Development will primarily considered against planning policy in Staffordshire and Lichfield, some pertinent considerations may be replicated or further considered in planning policy for the adjacent Walsall Council Authority.

5.8.2 The ‘need’ for development has been outlined in Section 3.9.3, with key reference to the West Midlands Metropolitan Area being the core waste and mineral market for the Site. Local planning policy seeks to support this ambitious economic development strategy, which will rely on facilities such as Shire Oak Quarry.

5.8.3 In particular, Walsall and the wider West Midlands Metropolitan Area is a nett importer of mineral. The draft Walsall Site Allocations Document (published for consultation November 2016), has made no specific mineral allocations. It is recognised that Walsall is likely to import much of its mineral requirements from adjacent boroughs/areas. Future sand and gravel provision has also been considered and the document outlines that “No other areas have been identified for future sand and gravel extraction on the SAD Policies Map. The viability and deliverability of working in other parts of the sand and gravel resource area was considered in the SAD & AAP Minerals Study (2015), and no other areas with realistic potential were identified”.

5.8.4 As such, the proximity of Shire Oak Quarry to the local market areas in Walsall and the wider metropolitan area is a critical planning consideration in terms of maintaining mineral supply to support local economic development.

5.8.5 It is noted that Walsall is covered by an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA). The Site falls outside of the AQMA. A range of dust suppression techniques are successfully applied at the Site and average HGV movements are projected to be below historic levels. As such and as considered in Chapter 4 of the ES, no unacceptable impacts are predicted on the AQMA and the proposals will are not predicted to lead to a significant deterioration in air quality in accordance with local policy (i.e. under Policy ENV8 of the Black Country Core Strategy).

5.8.6 Whilst the majority of HGV traffic travels in to Walsall using the existing highways network, it is noted that vehicle movements are projected to be below historic consented levels. As such the highways network is considered fit for purpose (refer to Transport Statement) and accords with local policy.

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5.8.7 Additionally, the proximity of Shire Oak Quarry to Walsall means that journey times, distances and costs are substantially reduced compared to other quarries and waste facilities. This reduces ‘mineral miles’ and the Site is at a sustainable location in terms of the transport of material and climate change agendas. Irrespective of where the material comes roughly the same number of HGV movements through the AQMA will be required to maintain supply and facilitate development; just they could be travelling from further afield.

5.8.8 Overall, the Proposed Development is not considered to conflict with policies in the Black Country, with no unacceptable environmental impacts assessed. There is a number of material planning benefits to the proposals and the restored site will be of benefit to the local community. The amenity of local residents along Lichfield Road and Chester Road will be protected in accordance with existing planning conditions which will be expanded to cover the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

5.9 OVERALL COMMENTARY

5.9.1 It is considered that the Proposed Development complies with national and local planning policies and Government guidelines for safeguarding mineral, facilitating economic development (through mineral supply) and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill and adopting more sophisticated methods of waste/resource management. In particular, the Site falls outside any environmentally sensitive location such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, National Parks, international conversation sites, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, World Heritage Sites, Special Protection Areas, Special Areas of Conservation and Ramsar sites. The amenity of local residents can continue to be protected in accordance with current planning conditions.

5.9.2 Overall, the Proposed Development will bring about a number of material planning benefits that should be supported under national and local policy. In respect of the Proposed Development, there should be a presumption in favour sustainable development.

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f 6 ENVIRONMENTAL AND OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

6.1 NOISE

6.1.1 Potential sources of noise from the operational proposals will remain generally unchanged from the current permitted situation, occurring for an additional period up to the end of 2028 over an enlarged area. Sources of noise relate to HGV movements, vehicle movements associated with material stockpiling, moving and restoration, processing of imported waste streams and an additional period of mineral extraction.

6.1.2 All existing mineral / recycling processing operations will continue as existing within the consented locations. Only mineral extraction, subsequent infilling and associated works (soil storage) will be undertaken in the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

6.1.3 All on-site machinery is fitted with standard noise attenuation equipment in order to meet all relevant Health and Safety legislation and will be operated and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. All existing conditions relating to noise are proposed to remain unchanged. In particular, Condition 20 of planning permission L.13/13/809MW is intended to be replicated on any new planning permission whereby “Site operations shall be controlled with the exception of the formation and removal of screening mounds, such that site attributable noise levels at a noise sensitive properties shall not exceed 55dB LAeq 1 hour”.

6.1.4 Processing equipment will be located as previously permitted or as low in the quarry void as possible to limit potential noise impacts, with operations only being raised as required by the level of infilling. Vehicle movements will be within existing permitted and historic levels, i.e. no increase in associated average vehicle movements per day.

6.1.5 Noise has been considered in detail as Chapter 5 of the ES. The current operations are not considered to have given rise to any significant noise impact on any nearby sensitive receptors. The assessment of effects from the Proposed Development on nearby receptors including Lichfield Road and Glenwood Rise, Garnet Close and Main Street in Stonnall, found that noise levels attributable to the Proposed Development would not breach existing consented noise levels of national guidance. As such the baseline noise situation will remain unchanged and no significant noise effects are predicted, with no further mitigation required.

6.1.6 It is considered that, in the context of the Proposed Development, noise concerns will not constitute a constraint to development.

6.2 AIR QUALITY (ODOUR & DUST)

6.2.1 It is not considered that any potential odour emissions will arise from the Proposed Development since only inert waste will be accepted for landfilling or treatment at the Site.

6.2.2 The potential dust emissions from the Proposed Development are considered in Chapter 4 of the ES. Dust generation and dispersal will be significantly affected by weather with dry and windy conditions potentially leading to significant dust propagation.

6.2.3 In order to minimise the potential generation of dust from the extraction and restoration of Shire Oak Quarry and the inert waste recycling, a number of preventative and control measures are currently put into place by the Operator and will be extended to the Proposed Development.

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6.2.4 The existing extraction, landfilling and processing/treatment operations will carried out using the same plant as existing at the Site, using similar techniques. The existing and proposed operations do not generally give rise to any significant dust impacts on any nearby sensitive receptors, with no formal complaints known to have been received within the last 5 years.

6.2.5 The Additional Mineral Extraction area, and sources of potential dust, are no less than 250m from nearby high sensitivity properties along Chester Road and Lichfield Road and within Stonnall. At this distance, adverse impacts are rarely predicted.

6.2.6 In terms of dust, it is accepted practice (Institute of Air Quality Management Guidance 2016) that the greatest impact from disamenity dust (dust that may cause nuisance) is within 100m of the source point and disamenity dust is considered unlikely beyond 250m. A range of industry standard dust suppression techniques are employed at Shire Oak Quarry (as part of the existing dust management measures) and will be extended to cover the Proposed Eastern Extension area. Given the distance to high sensitivity receptors, the assessment has not shown any significant adverse effects over and above the existing consented situation and no adverse effects in relation to air quality targets.

6.2.7 The Proposed Development can be undertaken in accordance with best practice guidance and dust control techniques such that the proposals will be effectively controlled, minimising the potential impacts of nuisance dust on the amenity afforded to nearest neighbours.

6.2.8 Overall, the Proposed Development is not considered to result in any additional significant impact with regards to air quality, with control measures to be enacted, such that air quality concerns are not considered a constraint to development.

6.3 ECOLOGY AND BIODIVERSITY

6.3.1 The Proposed Development has been subject to an Ecological Impact Assessment which is assessed as Chapter 6 of the ES. This has been based on a series of ecological surveys.

6.3.2 Overall, the areas of proposed operations contain habitats of only a Site or Local level importance. The areas of works are of limited ecological value. It is also noted that some of the existing habitats at Shire Oak Quarry are transient in nature. This being said, a range of species have been considered alongside the existing habitats. A range of mitigation and management measures have been recommended that when enacted will ensure that there are no significant adverse effects in relation to ecology.

6.3.3 Overall, the revised restoration scheme provides a Positive (Not Significant) effect through increased contribution of habitats of principal importance (increased acid grassland, hedgerows and ponds) with a slight decrease in woodland. Additional habitat, in the form of retained inland cliffs has been incorporated to provide additional benefit over the baseline situation. Further Restoration Enhancements and Benefits are outlined at Section 4.4.

6.3.4 As such, any ecological considerations can be mitigated for and overcome as part of the Proposed Development, with a range of enhancements to be provided through restoration which will provide a diversity of habitats of greater benefit to local wildlife, over and above the existing consented situation.

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6.4 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL

6.4.1 The immediate area, surrounding the Site is essentially of urban fringe character, comprising agricultural land (mostly arable and livery) mixed with a number of urban influences (major roads, minor roads, houses, business and infrastructure). Shire Oak Quarry is a long standing feature within the landscape. The surrounding landscape, and particularly to the east of the Site over existing agricultural land, is gently undulating with a number of rounded hills and shallow dry valleys present.

6.4.2 A Landscape and Visual Impacts Assessment is included in Chapter 7 of the ES and a description of the revised restoration proposals and strategy in Chapter 3 of the ES. The Proposed Development is not considered to be widely visible. The landscape value of the Site is considered Low and the overall sensitivity of the landscape at the Site is considered Low. During the operational period, no significant adverse effects on visual amenity or landscape character have been assessed.

6.4.3 The residual situation, upon completion of restoration will be an increase in tranquillity afforded through restored landform that has more undulation and openness than was possible with the existing permitted extraction and restored woodland with an improved woodland structure to encourage biodiversity in keeping with local landscape and biodiversity strategies.

6.4.4 Overall, with regards to landscape character, the revised restoration scheme will provide beneficial landscape effects over and above the approved baseline situation. Further restoration enhancements and benefits are outlined at Section 4.4.

6.4.5 Overall, the Proposed Development is not assessed as having any significant adverse impacts on landscape or visual amenity that would be a constraint to development. There would be beneficial effects upon restoration, with greater diversity of habitats. The residual characteristics upon restoration will contribute a number of desirable elements, retaining and enriching the essential aspects of the landscape character area through inclusion of ‘High’ and ‘Medium’ priority habitats for the Landscape Character Types including lowland acid grassland, neutral grasslands, field margins, ponds, species-rich hedgerow and woodland habitats.

6.4.6 The restoration proposals are considered sustainable and will provide for a beneficial long-term multi-functional afteruse.

6.5 HIGHWAYS / TRANSPORT

6.5.1 Traffic movements will remain below historical levels associated with the waste and mineral operations at the Quarry Site. The associated vehicle movements for the Proposed Development have been outlined in Section 3.6 and Chapter 2 of the ES. A Transport Statement covering all traffic and transport considerations in respect of the Proposed Development can be found in Appendix G, which has been used to inform the EIA process, where appropriate.

6.5.2 The existing access point and internal access tracks will continue to be used, with the road network considered sufficient, in accordance with previous assessments, to cater for the proposed traffic movements over the lifetime of the Proposed Development, with the main source of impact being an increase in the time period traffic movements will occur beyond the current permitted timescales of the quarry. As there are no proposed access or vehicle changes beyond the existing consented situation, no significant environmental effects are predicted.

6.5.3 Based on the assessment presented in the Transport Statement, and taking into consideration

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advice provided in the National Planning Policy Framework, which states that development should only be refused where traffic impacts are severe, it is concluded that the Proposed Development is acceptable with respect to transportation and highways.

6.6 AGRICULTURE AND SOILS

6.6.1 An Agriculture and Soil Assessment forms Chapter 8 of the ES. An area of Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land will be temporarily lost for the duration development within the Additional Mineral Extraction Area and over the new landscape mound. All soils will be stripped prior to extraction and stockpiled on Site for re-use in restoration. As such the indigenous soil resource will be conserved and will restore the Proposed Eastern Extension Area to BMV land. There is no significant loss in agricultural land and the existing quarry complex has been out of agriculture for a considerable period of time.

6.6.2 Restoration soils will be reinstated on prepared ground within the Site in accordance with best practice guidance for the proposed habitats and land-uses.

6.6.3 The Site will be restored to a combination of agricultural land (BMV land where achievable) and other suitable afteruses upon restoration. As such, there will be no significant loss of BMV agricultural land and the soil resource will be conserved where necessary. The restoration allows for a range of agricultural land to be provided and overall, c. 21ha of agricultural land will be restored across the Application Site. This compares to the temporary loss of c. 4.1ha of agricultural land during additional mineral extraction operations, with an additional 1.1ha of land put to woodland in the Eastern Extension Area.

6.6.4 Overall, agriculture and soils do not pose a constraint to development in planning policy terms.

6.7 TREES

6.7.1 An Arboriculture Survey has been undertaken in relation to the Site and is included in Appendix E. The survey has been used to inform the EIA process where appropriate, including the Ecological and Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (Chapters 6 and 7 of the ES).

6.7.2 The Site does not contain any veteran trees or areas of ancient woodland.

6.7.3 A relatively small area of woodland (c. 0.6ha) will be lost at the southeast corner of the Existing Quarry Area, comprising up to moderate quality trees and the removal of some hedgerows, which are typically species poor and gappy. The proposed landscaping will mitigate the loss of existing trees, hedgerows and parts of woodland improving species diversity and long term sustainable tree, woodland and hedgerow coverage.

6.7.4 The relatively small loss of woodland will have a limited effect as the vast majority of the adjacent wider woodland is to be retained, on higher land. Restoration planting will further augment this woodland in the future.

6.7.5 New hedgerow and gap planting along with Standard-sized tree planting will increase and improve hedgerow species, increase individual tree stock and mitigate further against loss through the proposed. Early mitigation planting in the southeastern area of the Site will form an early planted new native woodland section connecting to the remaining woodland. The restoration woodland and hedgerow (and hedgerow tree) planting will also be undertaken. Together, this planting will

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increase the species and age mix and further improving the biodiversity and habitat connections across the Site.

6.7.6 Also from an ecological and landscape perspective many of the woodland areas are considered of limited quality (poor species diversity and habitat quality), are too dense and would benefit from some woodland management to promote woodland structure and understorey habitat development. Most of the existing woodland areas at the quality are plantation or self-set and have not been subsequently managed. Some trees, due to stocking density, have become tall, leggy and prone to collapse.

6.7.7 Where practical, the Proposed Development allows for areas of woodland within the Site to be revisited and subject to tree management works in the early part of the Proposed Development to facilitate enhanced restoration and woodland improvements.

6.7.8 Overall, accounting for mitigation and restoration proposals, it is not considered that trees to not pose a constraint to development in planning terms.

6.8 LAND CONTAMINATION AND GROUND CONDITIONS

6.8.1 The Proposed Eastern Extension area comprises predominantly virgin agricultural land (currently used for cultivation) and a small area to the south of previously deposited quarry overburden and graded material, which is now colonised by woodland.

6.8.2 Review of the British Geological Survey (BGS) website shows that the bedrock geology of the Site comprises the Kidderminster Formation, which is a Principal Aquifer and part of the Sherwood Sandstone Group (http://mapapps.bgs.ac.uk/geologyofbritain/home.html). The Kidderminster Formation is characterised by pebbly sandstones and conglomerates with a sand matrix. It lies unconformably on the Alveley Member, which is classified as a mudstone with sandstone beds. The BGS data shows that there are no superficial deposits at the Site.

6.8.3 The Environment Agency web page, ‘What’s in Your Backyard’ (http://apps.environment- agency.gov.uk/wiyby) shows that the Site is located in a Groundwater Source Protection Zone 3 (SPZ3). The web page also shows that there is a licensed groundwater abstraction within 1km of the Site. This is the South Staffordshire Water boreholes at Sandhills, under licence 03/28/17/0006. The SPZ3 relates to the protection of this source.

6.8.4 Groundwater monitoring at the current Site has been undertaken from seven groundwater monitoring boreholes that were installed in 1999, i.e. BH01, BH02, BH03, BH04, BH05, BH06 and BH07. Boreholes BH01, BH03 and BH05 have since been lost or damaged, although boreholes BH02, BH04, BH06 and BH07 remain and are monitored on a monthly basis. Routine groundwater monitoring up to August 2016 shows that groundwater quality is good and there is no significant contamination (groundwater monitoring is a requirement of the Site’s Environmental Permit for inert landfill, which was first issued in June 2002 as a Waste Management Licence). Full details of groundwater monitoring are included in the Environmental Statement, Chapter 9.

6.8.5 The Site is not located within, adjacent to or near a flood risk area. The vast majority of the surface water at the Site flows to the lowest points of the quarry void, and would be contained within the Site during operations. The Proposed Eastern Extension area and amendments to the final restoration landform are not considered to alter significantly the existing flood risk and hydrology aspects at the Site.

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6.8.6 In terms of potential sources of land contamination and factors that could affect ground conditions, the ‘What’s in Your Backyard’ website and an Envirocheck report for the Site have been used to provide further background information.

6.8.7 ‘What’s in Your Backyard’ shows that there is another landfill within 1km of the Site, operated by Amey Roadstone Corporation (ARC) Limited and that it accepted inert waste. This site now forms much of the Shire Oak Local Nature Reserve and is colonised by a mixture of grassland, shrubs and trees. The Applicant is not aware of any pollution incidents from this site.

6.8.8 Review of historical maps from 1883 to the present show that the predominant part of the Proposed Eastern Extension area has comprised agricultural land throughout that time.

6.8.9 The southern periphery of the Existing Quarry Area was used for sand and gravel extraction from about 1902 to 1903 onwards. The small area of mineral extraction had not significantly changed by 1938. However, there was some northwards expansion of the quarry by 1950. Major expansion of quarrying across most of the Existing Quarry Area had occurred by 1975.

6.8.10 There have been no reported pollution incidents at the Existing Quarry Area and the Proposed Eastern Extension area. Pollution incidents have occurred within 1 km of the current Site, as detailed in Table 1 below (taken from the Envirocheck report).

Table 4 Pollution Incidents to Controlled Waters

Incident Distance from the Site Pollutant Category Date (Compass Direction) 9 March Oils – Diesel (Including Agricultural) to Trent Catchment: Category 3 - 11m (W) ‘98 Lower Tame. Minor Incident Oils - Diesel (Including Agricultural) Unknown Watercourse; Category 3 - 9 July ‘99 108m (N) 100 Gallons Diesel Gone To Drains From Bus. Minor Incident

6.8.11 Due to the distance from the Site, date and nature of the above incidents, they are not considered to have any impact on land contamination or ground conditions at the Site.

6.8.12 Walkover surveys of the Site undertaken in 2016 do not reveal any ground staining or contamination from fuel or oil spillage etc. and there is no visible evidence of pollution in surface water run-off that collects in the Site’s current silt lagoon.

6.8.13 Considering the historic use of the Proposed Eastern Extension area, the fact that there have been no reported pollution incidents at the Site, the results of routine groundwater monitoring and walkover surveys, the risk of land contamination is considered insignificant.

6.9 WATER ENVIRONMENT

6.9.1 Full consideration of the hydrogeological, hydrological and flood risk impacts associated with the Proposed Development is considered at Chapter 9 of the ES.

6.9.2 The Site is covered by an Environmental Permit (issued by the Environment Agency) that will be extended to cover the Proposed Eastern Extension area as required.

6.9.3 The proposed depths of extraction will continue as previously consented and in accordance with current Site controls defined in Condition 17 of the Quarry Permission L.13/13/809MW:

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“Extraction of sand and gravel should not take place below the depths shown on the ‘Initial Schematic Operational Plan – Year 1’… or within two metres of the water table, whichever is the higher”

6.9.4 As such extraction (and subsequent infilling) in to the water table will not be undertaken.

6.9.5 The Proposed Eastern Extension area (as per the Existing Quarry Area) falls within a Groundwater Protection Zone 3. This is situated around a groundwater abstraction point at Sandhills, c. 690m northeast of the Site at its closest point. Previously historic deposited material, where lining of the Site has not been previously required, has not been found to have affected groundwater quality.

6.9.6 The longstanding operations at the Site have not given rise to concerns relating to groundwater quality or groundwater flows. This will continue to be the case with regards to the Proposed Development and no significant impacts are predicted.

6.9.7 With the continued adherence to planning controls and Environment Agency requirements, there are a number of key planning conclusions and benefits to the proposals:

 Only inert waste material will continue to be deposited at the Shire Oak Quarry. As per the existing consented situation, there will be a low risk of any pollutants entering the environment.

 As per the existing situation and existing planning permission, extraction is not proposed in to the water table, which will be protected throughout development in accordance with current planning controls.

 The quarry will continue to be operated in accordance with the extant Environmental Permit for the Site, which will be varied to include for the Proposed Eastern Extension area.

 In accordance with current landfill regulations, previously non-deposited areas of the quarry and the Additional Mineral Extraction areas will be engineered and lined as agreed with the Environment Agency. This is an improvement over the existing situation where the quarry was not required to be lined prior to deposit.

 The planning permission and Environmental Permit for the Existing Quarry Area currently allows material to be deposited within 690m of the abstraction borehole and also within the extent of Source Protection Zone 2. The revised proposals and restoration scheme do not currently require infill/deposit within this area (unless required for any Health and Safety or Quarry Regulations requirements). As such, new areas of deposit in the Proposed Eastern Extension area will generally be at c. 850m from the abstraction borehole, entirely within SPZ3, which is no closer than previous historic deposited material in the northern part of the Existing Quarry Area. Therefore, inert infill material will generally be at greater distance from the abstraction borehole than is currently consented. This is a benefit over and above the existing consented situation.

 The proposals lie within a Flood Zone 1 area (low risk of flooding). The low level restoration of the Site allows for improved water management within the Site, with no risk of increased flood risk on to surrounding land, where the consented restoration scheme allows for a higher level landform.

6.9.8 Overall, it is considered that there are no constraints to granting planning permission over and above the existing consented situation, in relation to the protection of the water environment. A

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number of benefits are inherent in the Proposed Development.

6.10 CULTURAL HERITAGE AND ARCHAEOLOGY

6.10.1 The Existing Quarry Area primarily comprises of heavily disturbed land resulting in the unlikely presence of any remaining features of interest with regards to cultural heritage. There are no Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, Scheduled Ancient Monuments or World Heritage Sites within the Site or immediately adjacent (including the Proposed Eastern Extension area).

6.10.2 The Proposed Eastern Extension area does comprise agricultural land, which needed to be accounted for in terms of heritage potential. A Historical and Archaeological Appraisal of the area was commissioned, the findings of which are provided in Appendix F. The scope of this appraisal was discussed and agreed with the County Council’s heritage consultee, in advance. The appraisal has found that:

“A number of sources, including the Historic Environment Record, historical maps, a walkover survey and aerial photographs have been examined to determine the history of the proposed extension of Shire Oak Quarry up to the present day. No designated or undesignated heritage assets are to be found within the area of the proposed extension, and there is no evidence to suggest that there are any known buried archaeological features within the site or vicinity. As such, it can be inferred that the potential of the site to produce buried archaeological remains is low. Based on the available information, the site is considered to be of low archaeological potential”.

6.10.3 Based on this appraisal, the Proposed Development is not anticipated to create likely significant effects on cultural heritage or archaeology. Further assessment is not considered necessary in support of this application and all works can be adequately controlled by planning condition if required.

6.11 GROUND AND STRUCTURAL STABILITY

6.11.1 All future extraction operations will be dug at gradients no steeper than 1:1 or will be benched at 10-15m intervals. All extraction and infilling operations are subject to on-site operational controls and geo-technical support as required. All works are undertaken in accordance with the Quarry Regulation 1999. Sufficient buffers will be retained to any nearby structures, with no significant extraction works continuing adjacent to properties off Lichfield Road, aside from existing consented operations. No properties are anticipated to be affected by the Proposed Development.

6.11.2 Restoration gradients will generally be designed with maximum gradients of 1:4 where practical. Retained quarry faces (currently located well away from any structures) around the existing silt lagoon and elsewhere, have been in situ for a considerable amount of time and are regularly reviewed for their integrity. This will continue throughout the development and the aftercare periods. Any remedial action will be undertaken as necessary, including slackening if deemed appropriate, subject to any planning, practical or environmental constraints.

6.11.3 Ground and structural stability issues are unlikely to arise as a result of the Proposed Development and will be regularly reviewed in accordance with Health and Safety and Quarry Regulations requirements throughout the operational and aftercare periods.

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6.12 UTILITIES

6.12.1 Shire Oak Quarry is well served by utilities and services including underground and overground electricity supply, water supply and foul sewers, telephone lines and other relevant infrastructure. These will all be unchanged by development, with no new connections likely. Existing utilities will continue to serve the existing operations and facilities retained in the Existing Quarry Area.

6.12.2 No significant or protected infrastructure or utilities are known to exist in the Proposed Eastern Extension area. No overhead utilities are present. The landowners are unaware of any local or site- specific services.

6.13 LIGHTING

6.13.1 Any lighting will only be used during the proposed operational hours as necessary for the safe operation of the facility, during non-daylight working hours (e.g. in winter) with lighting designed to with relevant British Standards and good practice guidance (including ‘Guidance notes for the reduction of obtrusive light’ (Institute of Lighting Engineers, 2005) and Lighting in the Countryside: Towards Good Practice (DCLG, 1997)), and otherwise specified and installed to minimise unintended environmental effects and ‘light pollution’.

6.13.2 As no floodlighting will be installed within the Site and therefore lighting is not considered to give rise to any effect on the prevalent amenity afforded in the area. Safety lighting at the Site reception area, off the Chester Road, will remain unchanged.

6.14 GENERAL AMENITY & OTHER ISSUES

Mud Entering the Highway

6.14.1 All operational vehicles will be checked and cleaned, if necessary before they go out onto the highway, however, all areas within the Site will be hard surfaced. The Existing Quarry Area also has a wheel wash facility on the main internal haul route adjacent to the eastern side of the proposed vehicle workshop. This will be utilised as necessary to clean vehicles exiting the Site. The updated wheel wash details for the quarry were approved in June 2015 (L.13/1/809MW D1). In compliance with extant planning conditions, staff will sweep or clean any mud or debris caused by vehicles visiting the Site.

6.14.2 No known formal complaints have been received with regard to mud entering the highway in recent years, with public liaison undertaken with adjacent residents undertaken, to agree and adapt road sweeping measures undertaken at the quarry to limit mud on the highway, associated with extant operations.

Pests

6.14.3 The Site only deals with inert waste. In the unlikely event of an infestation, specialist pest control contractors will be employed and brought onto the Site to deal with the problem.

6.14.4 No known complaints have been received with pest issues in recent years.

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Litter

6.14.5 All waste will be delivered to the Site in secure contained vehicles. All waste is controlled at lower levels within the quarry during deposit. Non-conforming material is rejected and removed from Site. Recycling operations help to process imported material, which further controls any potential for litter. Furthermore, the Site will be inspected on a regular basis in order to ensure that litter is controlled and collected where necessary.

6.15 CLIMATE CHANGE

6.15.1 Where relevant this has been considered as an integral part of each technical assessment.

6.15.2 Overall, no significant climate impacts are anticipated through development as the proposals relate to an extension of existing operations. Additionally, Shire Oak Quarry is the most proximate quarry to Walsall in Staffordshire. The supply of minerals and provision of waste services are extremely proximate to local markets. This reduces travel time, costs and associate environmental impacts compared to other quarry and waste facilities in Staffordshire.

6.15.3 The Proposed Development is considered to be a sustainable solution to maintaining local mineral supply, which will not have unacceptable climate change impacts.

6.16 HEALTH AND SAFETY

6.16.1 Plant and Equipment operators and workers on the Site will be fully trained and ensure that normal safety precautions are carried out. All operations will be carried out in accordance with the Site operator’s Health and Safety Policy document and current health and safety legislation, as well as the Quarry Regulation 1999.

6.17 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

6.17.1 Given the Site location and wider environs, no cumulative effects with other nearby similar developments are predicted for local receptors. The primary cumulative effect is the additional 5 year operational period which has been assessed as an integral part of the proposals and is not considered a constraint to development.

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f 7 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

7.1 PLANNING AND THE NEW MINERALS LOCAL PLAN FOR STAFFORDSHIRE

7.1.1 An eastern extension to Shire Oak Quarry has been under consideration by the current and previous operators of the Site since 2006, in respect of a potential minerals allocation under the new Minerals Local Plan for Staffordshire (2015 to 2030).

7.1.2 On the 4th July 2014, it was confirmed that the Applicant maintained an expression of interest in pursuing a mineral allocation as part of the new Minerals Local Plan, through the extension of Shire Oak Quarry.

7.1.3 This confirmed that there were 3 parcels of land under consideration for allocation; two fields immediately east of the quarry (Areas A and B) and a field to the north (Area C). It was further clarified on 13th October 2014 that a review of geological records indicated further mineral reserve within the existing boundary of Shire Oak Quarry, near the southeastern boundary (Area D). These areas were presented on a proposed allocation plan, with Plate 7 showing the proposed mineral allocation areas hatched blue. It was indicated that the total reserve could range between 2.4 – 3.5 million tonnes depending on extent and quality of geology.

Plate 7 Proposed Areas for Allocation (2014)

7.1.4 These proposed allocation areas were subject to public consultation by Staffordshire County Council in respect of the emerging Minerals Local Plan. There were a number of concerns raised in relation to the proposals by Walsall Council and local residents, including:

 Proximity to residents (along Lichfield Road in particular);

 Traffic impacts;

 Duration of operations; and

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 Noise and Dust impacts.

7.1.5 In response to public consultation and liaison with Staffordshire County Council, Area C was formally withdrawn as a proposed mineral allocation on 17th November 2014. The priority for the extension was focused on the commercial mineral reserves contained in Areas A, B and D.

7.1.6 On 9th January 2015, a formal Screening and Scoping Request (under the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011, was submitted in respect of Area D only, with the intention that Areas A and B continue to be pursued as allocations under the new Minerals Local Plan and subject to separate planning applications. A formal Scoping Opinion from SCC was received on 1st April 2015 (ref: SCO.68/809MW) confirming the scope and content of any planning application in respect of Area D.

7.1.7 Work on the planning application in support of Area D was pursued concurrently with further submissions in support of Areas A and B and the new Minerals Local Plan.

7.1.8 In mid to late-2015, further geological review, pre-application meetings with SCC and the position with regards to the new Minerals Local Plan led to the Applicant considering that a composite planning application covering the entire existing quarry Site and the Eastern Extension Areas (Areas A, B and D) would be more practical and beneficial in terms of the sustainable release of the remaining mineral reserves at and adjacent to Shire Oak Quarry. This was on the basis of various planning advice and liaison with local representatives that any planning application should:

 Convey the entirety of proposals;

 Provide for a composite working and restoration scheme;

 Maximise the release of mineral in a sustainable scheme;

 Consider the wider inherent benefits of restoration to the Site, including habitat improvements and the potential provision of permissive public access; and

 Provide clarity on planning controls through the consolidation of planning permissions and planning controls.

7.1.9 These considerations have informed the basis of this planning application and the Proposed Development.

7.1.10 At the same time, the proposed minerals allocations were pursued through the emerging minerals local plan. Overall, the emerging local plan did not propose the allocation of Shire Oak Quarry (‘Not a Preferred Site’), yet it was recognised that the quarry represented a “Smaller site with important location relative to local markets”. It is important to note that this was not a judgement on the planning or environmental acceptability of the proposals; this was a judgement in respect of releasing strategic mineral reserves across the plan period and across Staffordshire.

7.1.11 In terms of the emerging local plan, Staffordshire Country Council’s position in response to the Applicants 2015 representations in respect of Shire Oak Quarry, was that:

“At this stage given the provision available from existing and planned sites, there is no need to allocate the option at Shire Oak. There is uncertainty as to the extent to which additional mineral could be extracted but potentially additional reserves could be released on the basis of achieving benefits to existing restoration proposals and minimising the amount of backfilling required. Such

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proposals could be considered under policy 1.6”.

7.1.12 The uncertainty as to the mineral reserve related to the total extent of working that could be achieved pending further geological reviews. It is noteworthy that the emerging Minerals Local Plan made provision for 5 million tonnes of sand and gravel production per annum based on the previous 10 years sale average. This was the basis of the proposed level of allocation. However, the West Midlands Aggregate Working Party (which is represented by local authorities and operators) identified that the required production target should be 6.6 million tonnes for Staffordshire across the emerging Minerals Local Plan period (2015-2030).

7.1.13 On the 8th January 2016, Staffordshire Country Council submitted the new Minerals Local Plan for examination by a Planning Inspector (appointed by the Planning Inspectorate on behalf of the Secretary of State). Further written representations were made to the Planning Inspector on 15th March 2016, and various hearing sessions during the examination were held at the end of March and early April.

7.1.14 These representations and hearing sessions were supported by further more detailed work and review of geology information and potential extent of working. At this point, it was proposed that a minerals allocation for an eastern extension to Shire Oak Quarry, that would release c. 1.65 million tonnes of commercial sand and gravel. This would be provided by a reduced area of working in close proximity to the existing eastern quarry boundary.

7.1.15 Based on the representations and hearing sessions, no changes are currently considered required to the emerging Minerals Local Plan (not yet adopted) in terms of the level of proposed minerals allocations. In relation to Shire Oak Quarry, a number of issues were discussed, that can be summarised as follows:

 Staffordshire County Council’s proposed level of site allocations was in response to the annual sand and gravel production target (5 million tonnes), which takes account of the spatial distribution of Sites required to meet the entire County’s demand. Notwithstanding other planning considerations, a relatively small minerals allocation at Shire Oak Quarry was not necessarily required to meet the objectives of the local plan;

 Shire Oak Quarry was accepted as being extremely proximate to key market areas, especially within Walsall and some further mineral release may be warranted to fulfil local market demand;

 Shire Oak Quarry compared favourably in sustainability terms, with other proposed allocations and areas of search. The Council had made a strategic decision on where best to locate site allocations to meet the spatial and annual production target – it was not a judgement on the environmental or planning acceptability of any Proposed Development at Shire Oak Quarry;

 The eastern extension of Shire Oak Quarry could secure a number of planning benefits, including compliance with Minerals Safeguarding Policy (by ensuring commercial mineral reserves are not sterilised by waste imports) and sustaining local minerals supply, as well as providing restoration benefits; and

 The ability of Shire Oak Quarry to produce secondary (blended and recycled) aggregates, enables an efficient extraction operation to be undertaken that maximises the mineral reserve at Shire Oak Quarry and produces a broad range of products in comparison to other

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sites.

7.1.16 Based on this, Staffordshire County Council’s position remained that a strategic site allocation was not necessarily warranted; however, a planning application in support of an extension was anticipated and the release of further mineral from Shire Oak Quarry could be pursued under Policy 1.6 of the emerging local plan, where material planning benefits were inherent in the proposals, including minerals safeguarding, sustaining local mineral supply and restoration enhancements.

7.1.17 This stakeholder engagement has informed this planning application and the Proposed Development. The principal planning and environmental considerations are well known for the Site, based on various representations received in response to the emerging local plan. The Scope of the EIA has been refined and builds on the previous council scoping opinion in respect of previous planning proposals (ref: SCO.68/809MW).

7.2 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

7.2.1 A number of public consultation exercises have been undertaken in relation to Shire Oak Quarry in recent years, in addition to consultations led by Staffordshire County Council in respect to the new Minerals Local Plan.

7.2.2 As explained in Section 7.1, proposed mineral/site allocations were confirmed for four areas of land (field parcels) around Shire Oak Quarry in 2014. As a result of public feedback, Area C was withdrawn as a proposed allocation in November 2014. This would co-locate the proposed extension operations around the existing quarry operations to ensure separation of the new working areas from Lichfield Road and Chester Road, whilst retaining separation to Stonnall Village.

Public Presentation, November 2014 (Stonnall Village Hall)

7.2.3 In November 2014, to coincide with consultations by Staffordshire County Council on the new Minerals Local Plan, a public presentation was held at Stonnall Village Hall to summarise the history of Shire Oak Quarry, the existing planning consents and the potential future proposals for the quarry. The presentation outlined that the intention was to extract Area D and expand this to be form a peripheral eastern extension around the existing quarry boundary. Plate 8 below shows a slide that indicated areas of potential extension for Shire Oak Quarry.

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Plate 8 Slide from 2014 public presentation, indicating future proposals

7.2.4 It was confirmed at this meeting that Area C (near Lichfield Road) was not intended to be pursued.

7.2.5 Key public concern related to the proximity of any proposals to Stonnall Village and the environmental impacts, particularly in relation to noise and dust. The additional length of time for operations was also a concern.

7.2.6 There was also discussion about the potential restoration improvements that could be provided and the potential for public access. This was in response to an informative on planning permission L.13/13/809MW, dated 12th September 2014 which stated: “prior to any further revisions to the permitted operations at Shire Oak Quarry, opportunities to revise the Restoration Plan (for example to increase public access across the Site and to embrace the latest proposals for the area e.g. the Stonnall Country Park or to take account of policies I proposals in the Lichfield Local Plan or Stonnall Neighbourhood Plan) are discussed with the liaison group, neighbours and other interested parties”.

7.2.7 Throughout 2015 and 2016, there have been a series of council led consultations and public hearings in relation to the new Minerals Local Plan. Shire Oak Quarry has featured heavily throughout these consultations.

Shire Oak Quarry Resident Liaison Meeting, September 2016

7.2.8 On 15th September 2016, a liaison group to facilitate discussion with resident representatives from Chester Road and Lichfield Road was held at Shire Oak Quarry. This was to discuss ongoing operations and future proposals that form the basis of the Proposed Development. The meeting was broadly positive and generated debate particularly in respect of restoration proposals.

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7.2.9 Some initial concern was expressed about the extension of time of operations, but it was recognised that the works would predominantly occur during the existing consented timescales of the quarry (around a 4-5 year extension in time) and that the proposed extractive operations would be located on the opposite side of the quarry from Lichfield and Chester Road. Notwithstanding the outcomes of technical and environmental studies a number of themes were discussed.

7.2.10 It was welcomed that the intention was to keep HGV vehicle movements in line with the existing situation and below historic levels. It was further noted that existing street cleaning and maintenance on behalf of the quarry has improved in recent years and is broadly effective.

7.2.11 It was welcomed that the existing infrastructure and operations within the existing quarry complex would be broadly unchanged from the existing consented situation, with an opportunity to provide enhanced peripheral restoration around the quarry.

7.2.12 In respect of restoration, it was generally welcomed that there would be potential for permissive access (not currently provided for on the approved restoration plans), providing that it can be safely provided and would not adversely affect neighbouring properties security. It was highlighted that local residents would prefer not to have a widely promoted access to the Site and that any access should be a local facility for walking. There was concern that public access may encourage parking along the Chester and Lichfield Roads. A comment was made that ideally car parks should be provided; however, other residents considered this would encourage visitors from further afield leading to anti-social behaviour and further security and maintenance problems It has always been the intention that if access could be provided, this would be permissive (i.e. controlled by the landowner) and would only be promoted for local residents, for local benefit.

7.2.13 Following the liaison meeting no objections were forthcoming in respect of the proposals and two residents declared support for the proposals.

Public Exhibition (30th September 2016) and Public Consultation Period

7.2.14 A website2 with information in relation to the Proposed Development went live on 20th September 2016. This was updated several times with new information and new plans throughout September and October 2016. The website also included a fly-through of the Proposed Development and a brief outline of the key proposals.

7.2.15 Leaflets (outlining the Proposed Development) were issued to residents along Lichfield Road and Chester Road, as well as residents on the north side of Stonnall, including Glenwood Rise, Garnett Close, Main Street and Berryfields. In total, over 250 leaflets were hand delivered. The leaflets also promoted a public exhibition in relation to the Proposed Development, which was held at Stonnall Village Hall on 30th September 2016 from 2.30pm until 8pm. This was further promoted via notices in public notice boards at the village hall and on the Parish Council Website.

7.2.16 The pubic exhibition comprised exhibition boards, a fly-through video and was attended by company representatives. The exhibition was well attended by over 100 local residents, including elected representatives.

2 http://www.crestwoodenvironmental.co.uk/consultation-shire-oak-quarry.html

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Plate 9 Exhibition Material

7.2.17 It is noted that the public consultation exercise was in relation to the draft proposals that have subsequently been refined for the planning application. The final proposals, the subject of this planning application, will be subject to a full determination process and consultation period undertaken by Staffordshire County Council.

7.2.18 The proposals were discussed with numerous residents attending the exhibition and comments were noted. At the exhibition during the following week, 18 formal feedback forms were received in addition to a number of email queries and email comments. Further emails and comments have been received prior to planning submission.

7.2.19 It is noted that a technical issue with the feedback email address occurred during the consultation period. The consultation period was formally extended until 7th October 2016, although all feedback and further correspondence received in relation to the proposals has been considered where necessary, up to the point of submission.

7.2.20 The majority of residents attending the exhibition and respondents during the consultation were residents in Stonnall.

7.2.21 There was general support for the restoration proposals overall, in terms of the proposed land uses and habitats.

7.2.22 A small number of feedback forms (3) expressed support for the Proposed Development, in addition to some positive comments made at the exhibition. A summary of comments and/or sentiment recorded at the exhibition and in feedback forms included:

 ‘no strong objection if the quarry is needed for the construction industry’;

 the existing operations do not cause many problems now, so hopefully this will continue; and

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 a number of residents looked forward to the restoration and would ‘welcome early access’ if this was practical.

7.2.23 Additionally, a number of residents in Stonnall believed they would be unaffected by the proposals as they still lived a considerable distance from the extent of working; however, a number of residents expressed that whilst they may be unaffected they would like to be sure that other village residents would not be adversely affected.

7.2.24 A number of residents were undecided on the proposals, with a large proportion of respondents stating they had concerns relating to the proposals or felt they could not support the proposals at this stage. The majority of respondents expressed similar concerns during the public exhibition, that can be summarised as follows:

 Concern as to the proximity of the Proposed Development to properties in Stonnall Village (and the associated effects);

 Concerns relating to an increase in noise and dust impacts for residents in Stonnall;

 The length of time operations would last for; and

 Concern that additional vehicle accesses were proposed.

7.2.25 Many of the concerns were raised by residents in Glenwood Rise, the closest residents to the Site.

7.2.26 In relation to the proximity of the proposals to Stonnall Village, some local residents were unclear as to the location of Stonnall (and their property) in relation to the Proposed Development. There was general consensus that residents interest related to how close the proposals came to their property and the village. Residents were concerned that they could not identify their property in the consultation information, or that their property was not shown on some of the plans.

7.2.27 Context plans were provided at the exhibition that showed aerial images and the proximity of Stonnall Village. These were subsequently published on the consultation website and are included with the application documents (see Figures 13 and 14 in Appendix C). These plans show the relative distance to the proposed additional extraction areas. The detailed plans relating to the Site are displayed at an appropriate scale that shows the proposals and immediately adjacent neighbouring areas.

7.2.28 The existing Quarry Permission boundary is c. 330m northwest of the curtilage of properties at Glenwood Rise, Stonnall, at the their nearest point. The proposed planning boundary, in respect of the Proposed Eastern Extension bounday, will be c. 242m north-northwest of the curtilage of properties at Glenwood Rise at their nearest point. This southern and southeastern boundary of the Site (within the Proposed Eastern Extension area) will comprise a permanent 2m to 3m high landscape mound that will be constructed within an 8 week period, that will be located at 250m from properties at Glenwood Rise. This will be planted with around 1.1ha of woodland planting and the boundaries reinforced with hedgerow planting. Hedgerows and trees on the eastern boundary of the Proposed Eastern Extension area will be protected and reinforced, with intervening vegetation in the landscape retained and unaffected.

7.2.29 In respect of mineral operations, the maximum extent of Additional Mineral Extraction area will be at c. 302m northwest of the northern property boundaries at Glenwood Rise at their closest. Mineral extraction will not encroach to within 300m of any properties at Stonnall Village. Interlying agricultural land (between the Site and Stonnall) will be unaffected by the Proposed Development.

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7.2.30 As such, there would remain a considerable distance between Stonnall village and the Proposed Development, noting that the boundary of the Existing Quarry Area currently abuts rear property boundaries at Lichfield Road.

7.2.31 In relation to mineral processing and recycling operations, they will continue to be located within the Existing Quarry Area. As per the existing consented situation, all mineral processing and recycling operations will be co-located in a central area of the Existing Quarry Area, which will move wash plant operations further away from properties at Lichfield Road. Mineral processing operations will not take place in the Proposed Eastern Extension area and, as such, the processing operations are not considered to encroach towards Stonnall village and will remain over 500m distant from the closest properties at Glenwood Rise.

7.2.32 A phased restoration scheme and advanced planting works is proposed that would further improve peripheral habitats around the quarry edge and further separate proposals from adjacent properties or nearby.

7.2.33 Further to concerns raised in relation to noise and dust (particularly in response to concerns relating to the proximity of proposals to Stonnall), the Environmental Statement includes consideration of Dust and Noise in Chapters 4 and 5 respectively. The Additional Mineral Extraction area and sources of potential dust are at or over 250m from nearby high sensitivity properties along Chester Road and Lichfield Road and those within Stonnall. At this distance, adverse impacts are rarely predicted.

7.2.34 In terms of dust, it is accepted practice (Institute of Air Quality Management Guidance 2016) that the greatest impact from disamenity dust (dust that may cause nuisance) is within 100m of the source point and disamenity dust is considered unlikely beyond 250m. A range of industry standard dust suppression techniques are employed at Shire Oak Quarry (part of the dust management measures used at the quarry) and will be extended to cover the Proposed Eastern Extension area. Given the distance to high sensitivity receptors, the assessment has not shown any significant adverse effects over and above the existing consented situation and no adverse effects in relation to air quality targets.

7.2.35 In terms of noise, in response to concerns raised in Stonnall, quarry attributable noise (accounting for existing and proposed operations) has been modelled at Glenwood Rise, Main Street and Garnet Close in Stonnall, in addition to the nearest properties at Lichfield Road. The existing planning control (Condition 20 of permission L.13/13/809MW) is that quarry attributable noise (excluding formation of bunds/temporary works) will not exceed 55dB at nearby noise sensitive properties. The noise modelling has shown that this condition will continue to be complied with in relation to the nearest properties in Stonnall and those along Lichfield Road. The existing noise planning controls are proposed to be replicated on any new planning permission. The Proposed Development will not change the existing baseline noise controls’ relating to the Site and further mitigation is not considered required.

7.2.36 Overall, accounting for any mitigation and existing planning controls, neither the dust or noise assessment has identified any impacts over and above the existing consented situation that would be a constraint to development and significantly adversely affect local amenity. Existing planning controls are considered fit for purpose and can be replicated on any new planning permission.

7.2.37 In relation to the length of time of operations, Shire Oak Quarry is not due to be restored until the end of 2023 with a subsequent 5 year aftercare period. The intention has been to work as much of

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the Proposed Development as possible during the existing extant timescales relating to the Site, whilst maximising the release of mineral from the Site and minimising importation requirements through restoration revisions and enhancements.

7.2.38 Overall, an extension of time beyond the existing consented timescales is required to facilitate the Proposed Eastern Extension area and the additional mineral release. Timescales have been determined based on reasonable export projections and the required time periods to achieve restoration to a suitable landform. This is equivalent to a period of up to 5 years beyond the consented cessation date of operations. The Proposed Development allows for the Site to be restored by the end of 2028. Mineral extraction would cease in 2025.

7.2.39 The additional 5 year timescale for operations is a relatively short time period. The Proposed Development also allows for a revised restoration scheme, which includes for improvements to existing habitats, restoration enhancements, a more varied habitat structure and provision for permissive access for the local community (in the form of permissive walking routes and circular walks). These are enhancements over and above the existing consented situation. These works would also be undertaken in a progressive phased restoration scheme that would allow peripheral areas outside the working areas to be improved at an early point of operations.

7.2.40 Some residents have expressed concerns that the restoration will ‘never happen’ and that they have heard multiple proposals over the years whereby the quarry has continued to operate. Each planning application has to be judged on its own merits. In this case, the Proposed Development has accounted for comments from relevant stakeholders and local authorities to present a composite working and restoration scheme to cover the known mineral reserve remaining east of the quarry, facilitate ongoing phased restoration works and undertake works in the shortest timeframe possible. This planning application is a composite application that seeks to replace and consolidate all previous planning permissions for the Site, to clearly define the proposed operational areas and works required to fulfil restoration requirements.

7.2.41 Modern day planning controls will require regular monitoring and progress reviews to ensure the proposed timescales can be adhered to. In any event, the Site will continue to operate until 2023 as consented. All operations will continue until this date and the additional 5 year operational period beyond this will bring about significant planning benefits, including a significant additional mineral release and restoration benefits in terms of habitat provision and potential permissive access. It is further noted that the Proposed Development makes no provision for increased fill requirements, with the revised restoration designed with a lower level landform. This has further curtailed the proposed operational time periods. Overall, the proposed timescales are considered fair in relation to the planning benefits inherent in the Proposed Development.

7.2.42 In relation to access points, some residents were concerned that additional vehicle access points were proposed on the revised restoration plan. It has been clarified that no additional operational vehicle access points are proposed for the Site during operations. The confusion related to arrows outside the Site that showed potential permissive access links to the local area, upon restoration. The application makes provision for permissive access around the Site. Links with wider areas would need to be secured with local landowners, with parish and local council support outside the specific scope of this planning application.

7.2.43 No additional vehicle links are proposed. The potential permissive access accounts for walking routes only. Permissive access would be subject to further community consultation and liaison and

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would be provided upon restoration. The phased provision of any access is being considered subject to planning approval and satisfactory practical health and safety measures.

7.2.44 In terms of public access, throughout the consultation period there has been a mixed reaction to the provision of permissive public access. Overall, there appears to be a fairly even split in terms of those who support public access and those who have concerns.

7.2.45 Key concerns have included:

 Preserving privacy and security of adjacent properties, particularly along Lichfield Road;

 Ensuring any access is not widely promoted and is of a local provision for nearby residents; and

 Ensuring that any access does not encourage on road parking that would be disruptive for local residents.

7.2.46 In terms of privacy and security, any public access would only be provided where these concerns have been fully accounted for and consulted on. The intention is that the restoration scheme provides for a long term beneficial restoration scheme comprising productive agriculture and a range of nature conservation opportunities. Any permissive access would be provided in addition to this. The intention is that any access would not be widely promoted and would be managed by local landowners for the benefit of local residents.

7.2.47 In response to planning informatives, guidance and local interest, the Proposed Development seeks to allow for the provision of potential permissive access at the Site as part of a composite restoration scheme; however the full details of any public access would be subject to planning conditions and further public consultation with the local community and local stakeholders. Any provision would need to take account of a range of issues, including health and safety and highways considerations.

7.2.48 Other general comments have also been received in relation to the proposals, which have included:

 Concern as to the visual impact of proposals;

 Concerns over current wildlife;

 Whether the revised restoration is appropriate in terms of providing sufficient agriculture and/or sufficient nature conservation value;

 Concerns regarding HGV vehicle numbers; and

 Protecting the privacy of adjacent properties through additional tree planting (i.e. along the Lichfield Road).

7.2.49 Many of these issues have been accounted for as part of the Proposed Development and assessed as part of the Environmental Statement. This has included a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) and Ecological Impact Assessment, where the assessments found that there were no planning constraints to development and no significant visual impacts are predicted, over and above the existing consented situation.

7.2.50 There are no proposals to increase HGV traffic movements above the existing consented baseline situation. The Site has excellent transport links on to the Chester Road and trip generation related

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to the Proposed Development are projected to be within baseline and historic traffic movements. A Transport Statement accompanies the planning application.

7.2.51 The revised restoration scheme for the Site has accounted for the Agriculture and Soils Assessment, LVIA and Ecology Assessments, contained within the ES, to build upon the approved restoration scheme and provide a long-term beneficial restoration scheme as a mix of productive agriculture and nature conservation. The revised restoration scheme responds positively to the landscape character of the area, baseline ecological conditions, local and national habitat priorities and surrounding landuses. A range of habitats are provided for and a number of enhancements are proposed, including the retention of exposed quarry faces, escarpments and water features.

7.2.52 The restoration proposals will also ensure sufficient boundary planting as required to protect the privacy of adjacent dwellings. Some residents have also expressed an opinion that they would like woodland thinning out to provide views east of the quarry. This can be periodically reviewed during the operational and restoration aftercare periods, where a balance can be struck between screening views, protecting privacy and security, whilst taking account of opinions relating to reduced tree cover.

7.2.53 Overall, there have been a number of public consultation exercises undertaken by both the Applicant and Staffordshire County Council. Public opinion and stakeholder engagement has informed the Proposed Development, to minimise any concerns and provide material planning benefits. The Proposed Development is supported by an Environmental Statement that has found that the proposals are unlikely to give rise to unacceptable environmental effects that would be a constraint to development. The Proposed Development is considered appropriate and justified in planning and environmental terms.

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APPENDICES:

Appendix A Planning Checklist

Appendix B Planning Forms and Certificates

Appendix C Planning Drawings:

 Figure 1 - Site Location Plan

 Figure 2 - Main Quarry Permission Plan

 Figure 3 - Dry Recycling Permission Plan

 Figure 4 - Eastern Extension Planning Application Boundary Plan

 Figure 5 - Consolidated Planning Boundary Plan (inc. land under the control of the Applicant)

 Figure 6 - Existing Site Plan

 Figure 7 - Environmental Setting Plan

 Figure 8 - Progressive Working – Stage 1

 Figure 9 - Progressive Working – Stage 2

 Figure 10 - Progressive Working – Stage 3

 Figure 11 - Revised Restoration Masterplan

 Figure 12 – Site Cross-sections

 Figure 13 – Progressive Working – Stage 2 (Showing Wider Context)

 Figure 14 – Revised Restoration Masterplan (Showing Wider Context)

Appendix D Site Photos

Appendix E Tree Survey

Appendix F Historical and archaeological appraisal

Appendix G Transport Statement

Appendix H Analysis of Planning Conditions

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APPENDIX A:

Planning Checklist

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APPENDIX B:

Planning Forms and Certificates

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APPENDIX C: Planning Drawings:

 Figure 1 - Site Location Plan

 Figure 2 - Main Quarry Permission Plan

 Figure 3 - Dry Recycling Permission Plan

 Figure 4 - Eastern Extension Planning Application Boundary Plan

 Figure 5 - Consolidated Planning Boundary Plan (inc. land under the control of the Applicant)

 Figure 6 - Existing Site Plan

 Figure 7 - Environmental Setting Plan

 Figure 8 - Progressive Working – Stage 1

 Figure 9 - Progressive Working – Stage 2

 Figure 10 - Progressive Working – Stage 3

 Figure 11 - Revised Restoration Masterplan

 Figure 12 – Site Cross-sections

 Figure 13 – Progressive Working – Stage 2 (Showing Wider Context)

 Figure 14 – Revised Restoration Masterplan (Showing Wider Context)

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APPENDIX D:

Site Photos

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APPENDIX E:

Tree Survey

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APPENDIX F:

Historical and Archaeological Appraisal

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APPENDIX G:

Transport Statement

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APPENDIX H:

Analysis of Planning Conditions

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